Barefoot World Atlas – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Barefoot World Atlas

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

app2015

84%

WISE Score

4.0

App Store

An interactive globe that turns geography into a tap-and-explore adventure—think Google Earth for elementary schoolers.

Barefoot World Atlas

app

Everyone, 2015

84%

WISE Score

4.0

App Store

An interactive globe that turns geography into a tap-and-explore adventure—think Google Earth for elementary schoolers.

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Where to Find

App Store

Google Play

Screenwise Verdict

This is one of those apps that does exactly what it promises: makes geography tactile and fun. The interface is smooth, the content is engaging, and kids actually want to use it—which is half the battle with educational apps.

The 2015 release date is a minor concern (some country info will be stale), but the core geography and cultural content holds up well. It's not going to replace a globe or atlas entirely, but it's a fantastic digital supplement that turns "where is that?" questions into mini-adventures.

The in-app purchases are the only real eyebrow-raiser, but they're parent-gated, so as long as you're not handing your unlocked credit card to a 6-year-old, you're fine. Overall, this is a solid, enriching tool that makes learning about the world feel like play rather than homework.

Age Fit

Common Sense Media rates it 9+, but plenty of 5-7 year olds enjoy it with parent involvement. The interactive globe is intuitive enough for younger kids to explore, while the data and quiz appeal to tweens. Teens will likely find it too basic unless they're geography enthusiasts.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Presents world cultures, animals, and geography with respect and curiosity. Common Sense Media notes high-quality graphics and engaging presentation narrated by BBC's Nick Crane. Parent reviews highlight it as colorful, interactive, and appropriate for young learners. No concerning content or chaotic pacing.

Imaginative

Interactive globe interface invites exploration through spinning, pinching, and zooming. Kids can discover animals, indigenous peoples, and geographic features at their own pace. The quiz game adds a playful learning layer. However, it's primarily a reference tool rather than creative sandbox—you explore what's there rather than build or create your own content.

Safe

Educational content with no inappropriate material. In-app purchases exist but are behind a parent lock (noted by Children and Media Australia). No ads, no social features, no user-generated content. Common Sense Media confirms it's safe for children with proper parental guidance around purchasing.

Enriching

Solid educational value covering geography, cultures, animals, and world landmarks. Builds geographic literacy and cultural awareness. The quiz component reinforces learning. Parent reviews confirm kids genuinely engage with it. However, it's a reference tool rather than deep dive—breadth over depth—and the 2015 release means some data may be outdated.

Parent Info

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Why It Might Be Great

Beautiful, intuitive interface that makes exploring the world genuinely fun—kids as young as 5 are reported to love spinning and zooming around
Narrated by BBC's Nick Crane with world music and high-quality graphics that feel polished and engaging
Covers animals, indigenous peoples, landmarks, and cultural tidbits that spark curiosity beyond just capitals and flags
Built-in quiz game lets kids test their geography knowledge in a low-pressure way
No ads or social features means distraction-free learning time

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What to Watch For

In-app purchases are present (though parent-gated), so have that conversation before handing over the tablet
Released in 2015, so some country data, flags, or statistics may be outdated—good opportunity to discuss how the world changes
Works best as a starting point for geography exploration rather than a comprehensive curriculum
Common Sense Media suggests age 9+, though younger kids with parent guidance can absolutely enjoy it

Conversation Starters

"What's the most surprising animal you found? Where does it live and why do you think it lives there?"
"If you could visit any country on the atlas, which would you pick and what would you want to see?"
"How many countries can you find that speak Spanish? What about French?"
"Let's look up where our family came from—what does the atlas say about that place?"
"Why do you think some countries are huge and some are tiny? Does size matter for how important a country is?"

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