Have you read many iTunes app reviews lately? If you’re like me, you generally skim over the reviews because you’re interested, but don’t feel like they help you make a better choice. It’s no surprise that we don’t have helpful app reviews; how many of you really have the time to write one? Or even know what people want to know in a review?
Well, I can share what I want from app reviews. Reviews should help us find out if an app is worth the money. If the app really teaches what it says it is teaching. Reviews, ideally, are short, to the point and most importantly – helpful! So, how can you write a “richer” review?
How to Write a Children’s Educational App Review
Share the Age of Your Child and What They’re Learning
Screenshots don’t give all the details and often the iTunes descriptions do not paint a clear picture. You bought the app and played it. The information you have is really important to help others make good choices about if the app fits their child’s needs.
Examples:
My 4-year-old learns all about colors while using this flashcard app.
My 3-year-old learns about writing letters while playing games on the app.
This app is fantastic for my 3 and 6-year-old because it has lots of different games that help them be better readers.
Share Your Favorite Things About the App
Every app does something well. Choose one part you think it really great and share it.
Examples:
We love that the app lets multiple children log on and save their work.
I think the music and design is amazing.
This app uses really detailed pictures to teach the alphabet.
Share What You Wish Was Better in the App
We all need feedback to improve. If the app is AMAZING – say that and then give a tip on what you would want to see to make it even better. If it is not amazing then we need to know that too.
Examples:
I love everything about this app but wish I could lock the links in the app.
This app could be improved by using a clearer voice when asking the questions.
The app is a lot of fun but my child gets lost between the multiple pages and games.
Steps to Take When Leaving Negative Feedback
Email the Developer First
If you email the developer you get A LOT farther than leaving comments in the reviews where they can’t contact you. If you have a serious problem – EMAIL FIRST. Enter a comment later if you don’t hear back or no solution is given.
Don’t Make It Personal
Developers work long and hard on these apps and appreciate feedback. Using the comments to ask for money back, sharing that the app is “boring” or just complaining does not help the app get better. Share only what you think other parents need to know before buying.
Be Specific
I want to know if there are not enough activities to justify the price. I want to know if the content is not appropriate for the age of the children it says it is for. I want to know if you have contacted the developer and haven’t heard back after 48 hours. I really want to know if the app says it’s educational and clearly it’s not when you are playing it.
Most Importantly – Leave a Review!
It helps the developers of these apps know what is loved about their apps and what features you want them to add. It also helps parents make a better choice about the apps they buy for their children.
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