Getting kids to tell stories is not only great for their language, literacy and speaking skills, but can also be a great way for them to process emotions and feelings in a way that is simple and relevant. Here I look at some of the great apps available to help kids get their imaginations working and get the most out of their time spent on the screens.

Sago Mini Doodlecast

Ages: 2-6 years

I love that this app provides basic prompts to get kids started on their stories. A simple picture and prompt question encourages them to expand on the story by recording the drawing and the voice as they go. They are left with a short ‘movie’ that can be saved to the camera roll and shared. There are over 30 prompts and you can choose the pencils and colours to create your story. And whilst recording our voices and hearing them played back is not something enjoyed by most adults, it is definitely something most kids get a kick out of, especially when it is accompanied by their own little masterpiece.

Cost: $3.79

Verdict: a great app for the pre reader and beyond, and the prompts help those intimidated by a blank page.

We Publish

Ages: 6 – 8 years (suitable for slightly older or younger)

Great storytelling app allows kids to write, illustrate and publish their stories. Using the pictures provided or your own that you can photograph and import from your camera roll, there is no end to the creating your kids can do on this app. It is a little pricier at $6.49, but certainly worth it for the hours of fun, creating, learning and sharing.  For a more comprehensive review, The Book Chook is where I first discovered this app and Susan has a more comprehensive view.

Junior Storytellers App

Ages: preschooler right through to upper primary (and even mums have a little fun with this one!)

I have reviewed this app before here, so I wont go in to detail again, but I wanted to include it on this list as I think it is one of the best storytelling apps available. The many backgrounds available provide a back drop to create stories with different characters, movements and facial expressions, enabling kids to gain a greater sense of empathy and understanding with their storytelling. A great one for your child to do individually or to collaborate with a friend or parent.

Do you have any other great storytelling apps you could add?