iOS app: How to child-proof preference setting?

[sritcp]

I am developing an iPad app for children. (It is a language learning app for ESL children as well as children with hearing loss who are learning to listen and speak).

The app consists of cards. Each card is an interactive exercise. We want the child to stay on the current card. Only the adult (parent or therapist) should be able to access the options to set the mode of play (practice vs testing....), navigation (go to another exercise or to the index of exercises), etc. We don't want the child to accidentally access and change these options.

What is the best way to accomplish this? I would like to avoid bringing up the keyboard, if possible.

Thanks,
Sri.

[Cool Dave]

That depends on the age of the children targeted. If they cannot read, you can use something like a set of switches or a more handsome pattern lock (anything but multiple choice) and give instructions to access settings.

If they can read, the only way I can think of is a password. A 4-digit passcode would work if you don't want the keyboard.

Hope that helps.

Dave

[sritcp]

No, the children can't read. Yes, multiple choice option button is out. I was thinking of a click at the top right corner to reveal a text field, into which the adult will type in an upper case letter (requires holding down the shift key, so a toddler won't do this accidentally) which would reveal the settings menu (or take them to the settings page). If this is not done within 5 seconds, the field vanishes.

Dave, can you explain a little bit about the "series of switches" or pattern lock you've mentioned (any links would be appreciated)?

Thanks,
Sri.

[Cool Dave]

Obviously you would need to say, "Enter an Uppercase Letter into the box." or something like that, with your idea. It also means that you have to bring up the keyboard.

I mean something like the pattern lock on many Android phones.

Something like this...

Any incorrect entry or a period of time would close it.

I have never needed to lock a menu myself, but I would do something like this because it looks good, is not confusing, and is not likely that the toddler will solve it.

Would this idea work?

Dave

[sritcp]

Yes, it should work. Thanks for the explanation.

I am trying to keep it as simple as I can (both programming- and user experience-wise), since i) the need is not security, and ii) the adult users (teacher/EI therapist) are often computer novices.

Thanks,
Sri.