Central to the product is a handset, called a WordWand, which stores ten words that can be recorded by a practitioner, teacher or parent. The words are linked to ten pods containing a picture, written word, numeral or phrase. The WordWand calls out each word at random and the child has to find the matching word by placing the WordWand on the pod showing the correct word, picture or number.
The set comes with 100 cards with a photograph of an object on one side and the written word on the other. There are also 50 blank cards for practitioners and parents to create their own resources.
Included too are suggestions for a range of games to play with the WordWand and a guide on supporting children's learning. Starting with basic concepts like colours, the games progress to more complex words to stretch a child’s vocabulary. Children can play individually or in small groups.
With just one ‘select’ button, it is easy for children to use. A concealred control panel within the lid enables practitioners to control the speaker volume, number of words recorded (five or ten) and time to find the words.
It was developed by the Reflections on Learning team in conjunction with early years, primary and language specialists.To see a video of the wand in use, go to www.reflectionsonlearning.co.uk/word-wand.html