Dots and Skills is designed to support meaningful, consistent skill development through focused daily engagement. To ensure the best experience for both children and parents, it is important to follow a few core usage principles that help maintain the quality and intent of the app’s learning model.
1. One Task Per Day, With Full Attention
Dots and Skills is structured to present one task (dot) per day. This design encourages children to concentrate on a single topic and invest real thought and effort into their responses. The goal is not quick completion, but deep thinking and thoughtful expression. When used correctly, one daily dot can lead to long-term learning and measurable growth.
2. Task Depth According to Response Type
The quality of the child’s response plays a major role in how effective the task is. Depending on the format, certain standards should be followed:
For drawing-based tasks, children are encouraged to create detailed, original artwork. Simple symbols or rushed sketches are discouraged; instead, thoughtful use of space, detail, and color are expected.
For voice-based responses, the recording should last at least 2 minutes. Children should elaborate on their thoughts, using their own words to explain, reflect, and expand their ideas.
Detailed responses help strengthen creative expression and allow the AI feedback system to generate more accurate and helpful suggestions.
3. Parent Involvement: Supportive, Not Controlling
While Dots and Skills promotes parental involvement, the child’s independence and authentic expression must always take priority. Parents may offer gentle suggestions or clarifying questions when the child is confused, but they should avoid over-directing or shaping the child’s answer. The parent’s role is that of a guide—not a co-author.
4. Skip the Dot: Use Sparingly
The app includes a “Skip the Dot” feature that allows children to move past a task without completing it. This feature is intended for occasional use only, such as when a task feels truly inaccessible. Overuse of this option can disrupt both the child’s learning rhythm and the app’s feedback and question-selection algorithms.
Whenever possible, children should be encouraged to at least attempt the task, even if they feel unsure or challenged.
5. Feedback Must Be Reviewed
One of the core strengths of Dots and Skills is the custom feedback provided after each task. These responses are more than evaluations—they’re tools for growth. Children and parents should read the feedback together and, when appropriate, discuss how to apply the suggestions. Engaging with the feedback loop is essential to building long-term skills.
6. Parent Comments and Ratings
At the end of each task, parents are invited to leave a comment and assign a rating based on the child’s performance. This input helps the system better tailor future tasks and serves as a reflective space for families to track progress. When available, this section should be completed to ensure the most personalized experience possible.
7. Conclusion
Dots and Skills is most effective when used with care, intention, and consistency. Focusing on one task per day, encouraging detailed and thoughtful responses, involving parents as supportive partners, and valuing the feedback provided all contribute to a rich and meaningful developmental experience. When used as intended, the app becomes far more than a task delivery tool—it becomes a daily opportunity for growth, reflection, and discovery.