According to a recent report released by AIHW, 1 in 10 Australians suffer from asthma (over 2 million people). I have asthmatics in my family and friendship group and I’m sure you do too. Today I’d like to share an App called Wellapets, a fun game that aims to boost confidence for kids with asthma and educate their friends as well. Check out our review and enter to win a Wellapets pack including an App download, stickers, bracelets and a t-shirt!
The Wellapets App helps children to learn how to manage their asthma by introducing them to an adorable dragon who can only blow fire when he learns how to control his asthma. The dragon is bothered by a range of environmental irritants including the horrible smog monster.
Working through the tasks, and learning about asthma as they go, kids can learn how to beat the smog monster, unlocking all kinds of cool mini games and collecting badges for completed missions. The more care that is given to the Wellapet, the stronger and healthier he becomes.
I sat down to test this App with two kids (6 and 8) who don’t have asthma, but do have friends at school who use inhalers. Right from the get go, the kids became excited about adopting their Wellapet and choosing a name and colour scheme (Danielle the Dragon, in pink and yellow). Then, as soon as they discovered that you can collect badges for completing ‘missions’ it was GAME ON!
The kids easily grasped the concepts presented in the App such as asthma triggers and symptoms, and how an inhaler works. It stimulated discussion, and appeared to increase their empathy for their friends who have asthma, and also their appreciation for making healthy choices (such as not smoking and keeping your living space clean).
The Wellapets App is approved by paediatricians and parents across the globe and has been developed from a solid research base. We found it easy to use, and tons of fun, and can see many uses for this App in home, school, and health environments.
Wellapets is available for iOS and Android. Download it here.
*Note: KID independent was provided with a complimentary download of the app to try. This review represents our personal opinion. We think this app is genuinely educational and fun.
