Illustrated book publisher DK has launched the beta version of DKfindout!, a free online encyclopedia where children ages 7-11, parents, and teachers can look up information in subject areas ranging from science and math to geography.
DK will kick off the website with a $100,000 marketing and publicity campaign. “Our goal is to bring children and their parents and teachers together online in a way that supports learning without diminishing curiosity,” says Rachel Kempster, v-p of marketing and publicity. “Our aim is to reach all possible consumers, and in keeping the site free to use, we are able to bring the very best of DK to everyone."
DKfindout!, which offers safe, age-appropriate material, uses the same visual approach to content as DK’s print books. The site is geared not only to those who are visual learners, but also to children who prefer to read information. It includes sound, video animation, and quizzes to enhance the factual information available. New content and functionality will be added throughout the year.
But the encyclopedia isn’t DK’s only new project. In February it will relaunch its My First board books series, which sold 17.3 million copies worldwide. The books, which are aimed at ages 2-4, have been redesigned with new photography and covers with clearer images. The first six books cover the ABC’s, numbers, animals, colors, trucks, and words.
