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| © Provided by USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, Inc. Amazon Echo dot devices allow kids and teens to do things like practice math and remember to do chores by asking Alexa to launch specific skills. |
By Jennifer McClellan, USA TODAY
Alexa, play “Baby Shark.”
If you have a preschooler and an Amazon device like an Echo, that’s a command you’ve probably uttered many times.
If you’re like the adorable 2-year-old Zoe Turner, who got a taste of fame after a video of her sweet baby voice struggling to get Alexa to play “Baby Shark” went viral, you know learning how to get Alexa to listen is a skill.
But, once you've mastered how to talk to Alexa, it can help entertain and teach kids and teens with interactive games and educational exercises.
The folks at Common Sense Media put together a list of nearly 20 things kids, from preschoolers to teens, can ask Alexa to do. We’ve highlighted nine for you here.
So, if you got an Amazon device for the holidays, or if you’re just looking for more ways to use the one you already have, here are some ideas on how to make technology work for you and your family.
"Alexa, open Animal Workout."
Little kids get moving by pretending to be animals while music plays. Common Sense says this is “especially great for those rainy or snowy days when kids need to burn off some energy inside.”
"Alexa, start Chompers."
Aimed to help kids brush their teeth effectively, Chompers tells kid-authored stories and jokes to occupy your little one while they brush.
"Alexa, launch Mommy-gram."
When your kid is too little to text or call on their own, they can use Mommy-gram to get in touch (with mom and dad). They say their message to Alexa, who sends you a text message. Then you can respond.
Say, "Alexa, play Kids Quiz!"
Bigger kids can play trivia by choosing from four difficulty levels. Common Sense says, “Kids Quiz! offers multiple-choice answers, so kids have a better chance of choosing correctly, even if they don't know much about certain subjects.”
"Alexa, open The Magic Door."
Big kids interact with the story by deciding what happens next. Common Sense points out that “some of the stories are mildly creepy, so they may not be a great fit for little kids.”
"Alexa, open Curiosity."
Tweens listen to factual information about subjects such as space flight and chemistry.
"Alexa, open Song Quiz."
Tweens choose a decade of music, listen to the song that comes on and try to name it.
Say, "Alexa, open Daily Routine."
Daily Routine gives your teen or tween reminders about school, chores and activities so you don’t have to (or maybe you have to less frequently).
"Alexa, open Yes Sire."
Teens take on the role of a monarch who makes choices about the fate of the kingdom. Common Sense notes “there are some mature themes and references, so this is better for teens.”
