FaceTime

LQ: 8.3

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Brain grade: 7.5
Fun score: 9.0

Platform/Console: , , , LWK Recommended Age: 3+ Thinking Skills Used: ,

FaceTime is a standard application on all new Apple products, but can also be be downloaded separately from the App Store. The application allows two parties to video chat through a WiFi or mobile connection, either by using a phone number or Apple ID e-mail address. FaceTime is a great way to keep in touch with friends or family members and adds a more personal conversation option than text messages or standard phone calls. This application is extremely simple and easy, and as such is suitable for anyone ages 3 and up. However, as with all online interactions, we recommend that parents monitor children’s use of the app.


this app is good for kids who need help with:

Self-Awareness

Understanding our own actions, thoughts and feelings. Improving social skills.

FaceTime operates in two windows on the user’s screen. One large window displays the second participant in the conversation, while the smaller window displays what the other participant is seeing. The smaller window ensures the user is conscientious of the video chatting experience of the second participant, whether there is enough light, or the camera is positioned for an optimal viewing experience. Maintaining composure can improve the steadiness of a handheld device, as well as improve the quality of the audio. The user must practice conversational etiquette similarly to a face-to-face conversation. Speaking over the other participant, or using an excessively loud voice can quickly degrade the quality of a video chat.

Planning

Developing a systematic approach for setting and achieving goals. Improving short-term planning.

Coordinating a time for a FaceTime conversation involves ensuring the availability of both parties. Though FaceTime can be used over a cellular connection, the experienced is optimal when both users are connected to WiFi. The application can also be used as an agent of planning. Coordinating trips, school projects, or working with a tutor are all made significantly easier and more personal over a video chat than through e-mail or text message. Participants may find that their ability to collaborate is far improved when the other participant is visible. Judging mood, tone and other non-verbal communications can be extremely beneficial to cohesiveness and encourage the practice of Planning even over long distances.

Try some of the suggestions below, or submit your own in the comment field at the bottom of the page.

Self-Awareness Activity

Encourage your child to think about who he is talking to, and speak appropriately. For example, he may need to speak louder when chatting with Grandma, than with his best friend. He also needs to speak a little more slowly and clearly than he is probably used to. If the person on the other end of the chat is struggling to comprehend your child, he needs to slow down and try to remedy the issue.

Planning Activity

Encourage your child to keep in touch with a relative or family member through FaceTime. The application is easy to use and provides a more personal conversational experience. Let your child formulate plans to visit with a relative or grandparent, or if this is not possible, encourage them to make plans for additional video chats at a later date.

FaceTime is a great option for Apple device users, but there are other similar alternatives for Android and PC. 

Skype:

Skype is chat program useful for sharing documents, text based messages, and video conference calling. Find out more here.

 

ooVoo:

ooVoo is a great video chatting alternative for Android users. Find out more here.

 

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