At its heart, Animation Studio is about storytelling. Kids get to develop their ideas and creativity and develop their storytelling abilities in a unique way. Kids learn how stop motion animation works as they use Animation Studio. STEM skills are practiced as kids learn how to utilize the camera and microphone, use the software, and figure out new technology. I love that the product teaches children valuable life lessons like perseverance and patience. Making a stop-motion animation film takes time, drive, and a willingness to keep at it. I like that the Animation Studio kept him engaged and encouraged him to stick with it.

I loved watching my son become a storyteller. Where he tends to become frustrated when working with a pencil and paper, it was awesome to watch him so freely tell his stories. He was inspired - and isn't that the goal as parents and educators - to inspire our kids to learn, grow, and work through their ideas? The product is easy to use—even for beginners and those not as comfortable with technology. The book walks you through the process. I love the way you can begin very simply, and slowly build in complexity and detail as you and your student become more adept at using the software. Younger kids can do something very basic while older students can work at creating special effects, lengthier films, and using features such as the green screen.

The pieces contained within the kit are fantastic. My son LOVED the Hue Book of Animation, and found inspiration in the pages. The camera is flexible and allows the user to create a variety of shots. The included microphone is a great feature. I love the printable storyboards included in the software. These help support children as storytellers- helping them work through their ideas to create stories with clear beginnings, middles, and endings.