How to use Amazon Rapids to Encourage Reading

NOTE: As of 2021, Amazon says "This App is currently unavailable for new subscribers."

Amazon Rapids is a reading app for children ages 5 – 12 that is associated with a Parent's Amazon account.

What is Amazon Rapids?

• Amazon Rapids is a reading app for children ages 5 – 12
• Parents with an Amazon account can sign up for the subscription service
• Students use their parents’ Amazon account information to log into their library
• Parents can create multiple accounts so each student can customize their library
• Students can tag their favorite stories so they are easier to find in their library
• To further customize their account, students can indicate their age group and interests
• Short stories are presented similar to text messages on screen
• Students have the choice to read the story or listen along
• Users can tap on any word to get the pronunciation or definition of that word
• There is a built in glossary and Parent Dashboard
• The Parent Dashboard helps parents monitor their readers by checking their activity. In the Parent Dashboard, parents can read summaries of the stories their children have read which can help start a dialog

Amazon Rapids in the news

[An Amazon Rapids] story is not unlike a script — and might get young minds working to fill in a story’s exterior details –The New York Times

The overall idea [of Amazon Rapids] is to get kids reading and interacting in a way that feels natural and gives them confidence to read independently — and that all starts with a good, short story on a device they’re already familiar with. –TechCrunch

Why should parents care?

• Amazon Rapids can help turn screen time into reading time. Which encourages using the device as a purpose instead of a pastime
• This service is designed to make reading fun, boost reading confidence, and encourage creativity
• Parents can utilize Amazon Rapids to start a dialog with their children by staying involved in their children’s reading activities
• Currently, Amazon offers a free trial so families can determine if the service is a good fit

What can parents do?

• If your child doesn’t engage in traditional reading techniques, consider encouraging your child to use Amazon Rapids
• Utilize the Parent Dashboard and monitor your child if they have an Amazon Rapids account
• If Amazon Rapids isn’t a good fit for your family, find creative ways to inspire your children to read
• Provide positive books for your children and if they prefer text message style stories, find an age appropriate play for them to read