Disney launched a new digital learning initiative, Imagicacademy, to provide mobile learning apps for kids and an app for parents to follow along.

The apps will also allow parents to “give their kids a virtual high five, and see recommended physical activities that complement that in-app lessons,” according to an article TechCrunch.com.

“Eventually, Disney plans to release printed material and smart toys, too.”

“As you can see, it’s so much more than a set of digital apps — it’s about a brand,” said Andrew Sugarman, executive vice president of Disney Publishing Worldwide,. “It’s a comprehensive suite of connected experiences, all of which have been created with quality, attention to detail, and, yes, magic.”

Bob Chapek, president of Disney Consumer Products, said “that when the company interviewed parents about existing learning apps, they said that the landscape is cluttered, with inconsistent quality. And even if they find something that they and their kids like, it tends to be a one-off experience.”

“With Imagicademy, on the other hand, there are plans for a suite of 30 similarly branded apps covering math, creative arts, science, language arts, and social skills,” said the article. “The first app to launch will be Mickey’s Magical Math World on iPad, as well as the companion app for parents.”

The apps, the article said, “will be free at first and offer a ‘pretty deep’ experience before you’re asked to pay — $4.99 for each game inside the app, or $19.99 for all five,” said the article.

“The target age group for these initial apps is three to five,” the article said. “Over time, there will be apps for six- to eight-year-olds, and they might start incorporating other Disney characters and brands, like Star Wars and Marvel.”

Check out the video of Disney's Imagicademy:

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Article by Kassondra Granata, Education World Contributor