WatchIt! A Better Gift than a New Xbox Game?

The presentation last Friday introduced the idea of WatchIt. WatchIt is a device that links to an app on a smart phone to encourage kids to exercise more. However, it isn't just encouraging, because it looks a kid's favorite games and apps until they have been active for so many minutes. It tracks the child's activity through a FitBit like watch, but more suited for children.
Children have been raised with screens in front of their faces leading to an increase in childhood obesity. Screens have basically become a mute button. If a kid is upset or pestering in any way the parents' response has become to hand them an electronic device or turn on the television. With the WatchIt device children will have to go outside and play to even get access to their games. The apps are not the problem themselves it is that children (and adults) have abandoned physical activity and therefore their health. By gearing this product towards children, the creators can only hope that it will teach them healthy habits to carry into adulthood.
An issue brought up in class was the cost of the device. They estimated that it would be about sixty dollars to purchase this device. It is a lot of money but it is roughly the same price as a new Xbox game or Playstation game. Considering that Christmas is getting closer, it made me think about the things kids get for Christmas. I feel that WatchIt could easily replace a video game as a Christmas present. Currently, the app can only lock the apps on the phone, but the creators hope they can expand. Eventually, this could be expanded to the television or the playstation or any other device that can download apps. Now, everything has apps.
The WatchIt is directed at kids and plays on their need for smartphones and tablets but also on their competitiveness. Kids can brag about how many achievements they got and how many apps they have unlocked. Kids love to be the best and even if they aren't always the best they think that they are. The device itself is also physically attractive to kids with bright colors. Kids will like wearing the new watch and beating its goals.
I really liked this project. I thought that it was a really good solution to childhood obesity. It will only get harder to control the older the children get. If they learn healthy habits now they can continue those into adulthood.