I always like finding out about new educational apps to share with my followers. They are the perfect way to boost your child’s knowledge and vocabulary. They make a great replacement to computer games because they support their academic and emotional development and understanding of the world around them.

1Decision develop resources that support PSHE, RSE, Health education, SMSC development, and safeguarding. The 1Decision Rainbow Smart app is available to download for free from Google Play or the App Store. I downloaded it on my phone to see what it had to offer. I do like how 1Decision understand that children are predominantly visual learners. So, they have developed a colourful and engaging app that appeals to that particular learning style.

I am sure lots of parents will find the flash cards helpful. However, I was most excited to check out the mindfulness section. We see lots of apps focused primarily on maths skills and phonics for younger children but keeping our mental health in good shape is invaluable.

The Importance Of Mindfulness

I have started doing more mindfulness activities myself after having a bit of a blip earlier in the year. Life throws you the occasional set of circumstances that can really challenge you. I have found learning ways to feel less overwhelmed has helped me deal with how I feel in a better way. Personally, I think it’s fantastic that 1Decision focus so much attention on emotional intelligence. Teaching our children from a young age more about feelings and emotions will hold them in good stead as they grow older.

RainbowSmart Videos

I listened to the getting to know your body video and it does seem like a very useful resource. Guiding children on controlling their breathing and being aware of their surroundings brings them back into the moment. It’s not healthy having your thoughts racing all over the place all of the time.

Children at this age tend to worry about the dark and monsters, basically their imagination can run a little wild between 3 and 6, so it’s good to find ways to get them back in the now and help them learn to relax and unwind. Engaging in mindfulness activities helps encourage a calmer state of mind. Children are less likely to be disruptive or anxious if they are in the present moment.

RainbowSmart Books

The Read To Me section has books that deal with issues that children might be concerned about like moving house or feeling worried. They are written in a very accessible way for children to understand. They illustrate how worries can grow and impact your physically like having tummy aches. Sometimes it can be hard putting into words how you are feeling. The stories help children begin to recognise their feeling and get the support they need. When you start talking about feelings with your children you can quash worries before they grow giving your children the reassurance they need.

Some of the content is free to use or you can pay a small price of 99p a week to unlock everything and make full use of all the features of this app. RainbowSmart is aimed at children 3 to 7 and I think they would really benefit from being more aware of their feelings.

The RainbowSmart app is one of the resources 1Decision have available to help children live happy, healthy, safe lives. It’s worthwhile having a look at their website and downloading the free app.