40 Best Educational Apps for Kids to Start Learning

In today’s fast-paced digital world, where children are exposed to screens from a young age, it’s crucial to harness technology’s potential for positive impact. Early childhood education sets the foundation for a lifelong love of learning, and educational apps have emerged as a powerful tool to supplement traditional teaching methods. These interactive and engaging learning apps for kids offer a fun and effective way to introduce core concepts, stimulate curiosity, and foster a thirst for knowledge in young minds.

From improving cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities to enhancing creativity and critical thinking, educational apps provide numerous benefits for children. Moreover, they cater to diverse learning styles, allowing each child to progress at their own pace in a safe and supportive environment. In this article, we’ve curated a list of 40 best educational apps for kids that span various age groups and subject areas, ensuring there’s something for every young learner. Join us as we explore these fantastic learning apps that can help your child embark on an exciting educational journey.

best educational apps for kids to start easy learning

I. Apps for Toddlers (Ages 2-4)

Focus: Early learning concepts, sensory exploration, motor skills development.

Alphabet and Numbers

Endless Alphabet: This app makes learning letters and vocabulary fun with interactive animations and puzzles. Each letter comes to life, helping children associate letters with words and sounds.

Age: 2-5
Subject Focus: Alphabet, Vocabulary
Pros: Engaging animations, simple interface, no ads or in-app purchases
Cons: Limited letter selection in the free version
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Freemium

Moose Math: Join Moose on an adventure through the forest, learning counting, addition, subtraction, geometry, and more through fun games and activities.

Age: 3-7
Subject Focus: Math
Pros: Playful approach to math, aligns with Common Core standards
Cons: Some activities might be challenging for younger toddlers
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Free

123 Numbers – Counting & Tracing: This app helps toddlers learn to count and recognize numbers through interactive tracing activities and games.

Age: 2-5
Subject Focus: Numbers, Counting, Tracing
Pros: Simple and intuitive interface, colorful graphics, positive reinforcement
Cons: Limited activities in the free version
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Freemium

Puzzle Kids – Animals Shapes and Jigsaw Puzzles: Introduce toddlers to various animal shapes and puzzles, promoting shape recognition and problem-solving skills.

Age: 2-5
Subject Focus: Shapes, Puzzles, Animals
Pros: Variety of puzzles, colorful visuals, develops fine motor skills
Cons: Some puzzles might be challenging for younger toddlers
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Free (with ads)

Early Reading and Vocabulary

Homer Learn & Grow: This app offers personalized learning pathways with interactive stories, games, and songs to help toddlers build early reading and vocabulary skills.

Age: 2-8
Subject Focus: Reading, Vocabulary
Pros: Adaptive learning, covers a wide range of skills, parent progress reports
Cons: Requires a subscription
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Paid

Montessori Preschool: Inspired by the Montessori method, this app introduces early reading concepts through activities that focus on letter sounds, phonics, and word building.

Age: 3-5
Subject Focus: Reading, Phonics
Pros: Montessori-based approach, beautiful visuals, calming music
Cons: Can be a bit slow-paced for some children
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Paid

Khan Academy Kids: This free app offers a comprehensive library of interactive activities, stories, and videos to support early literacy and numeracy skills.

Age: 2-8
Subject Focus: Reading, Math, Social-Emotional Learning
Pros: Completely free, no ads, wide range of activities
Cons: Can be overwhelming with the amount of content
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Free

Creativity and Imagination

Toca Boca World: A digital playground where toddlers can explore different locations, create stories, and interact with a variety of characters and objects.

Age: 3+
Subject Focus: Creativity, Imagination, Storytelling
Pros: Open-ended play, encourages exploration and experimentation
Cons: Some in-app purchases for additional locations
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Freemium

Sago Mini Friends: Join Harvey, Jinja, Robin, and Jack on fun adventures, visiting their homes, playing games, and sharing meals.

Age: 2-5
Subject Focus: Creativity, Social Skills, Imagination
Pros: Adorable characters, gentle and positive interactions
Cons: Limited activities in the free version
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Freemium

Crayola Create and Play: This app offers a variety of coloring pages, drawing tools, and interactive games to unleash toddlers’ creativity.

Age: 3+
Subject Focus: Creativity, Art, Drawing
Pros: Wide range of activities, encourages self-expression, no ads
Cons: Requires a subscription
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Paid

Motor Skills and Coordination

Busy Shapes 2: A colorful puzzle game that challenges toddlers to match shapes, developing hand-eye coordination and spatial reasoning.

Age: 2-5
Subject Focus: Motor Skills, Problem Solving
Pros: Simple yet engaging, beautiful design, no ads or in-app purchases
Cons: Can be a bit repetitive after a while
Availability: iOS
Pricing: Paid

Drawing for Kids: A drawing app with simple tools and a variety of colors, encouraging toddlers to express their creativity and develop fine motor skills.

Age: 2+
Subject Focus: Creativity, Motor Skills
Pros: Easy-to-use interface, fun sound effects
Cons: Ads in the free version
Availability: Android
Pricing: Freemium

II. Apps for Preschoolers (Ages 4-6)

Focus: Building on foundational skills, expanding vocabulary, introducing basic math and science concepts.

Reading and Language Skills

Epic!: This app offers a vast digital library with thousands of books, audiobooks, and videos for kids, fostering a love for reading and expanding vocabulary.

Age: 2-12
Subject Focus: Reading, Vocabulary
Pros: Huge selection of books, personalized recommendations, offline reading
Cons: Requires a subscription for full access
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Freemium

Teach Your Monster to Read: A fun and engaging game that teaches phonics and reading skills through interactive activities and challenges.

Age: 3-6
Subject Focus: Reading, Phonics
Pros: Game-based learning, tracks progress, aligns with UK curriculum
Cons: Can be a bit repetitive for some children
Availability: Android, iOS, Web
Pricing: Free

Writing Wizard for Kids: This app helps preschoolers practice tracing letters and numbers, gradually progressing to writing words and sentences.

Age: 3-7
Subject Focus: Writing, Handwriting
Pros: Customizable tracing exercises, fun rewards system, progress tracking
Cons: Some features require in-app purchases
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Freemium

Math and Logic

Prodigy Math Game: An engaging math game where kids embark on quests, solve puzzles, and battle monsters while learning essential math skills.

Age: 6-14
Subject Focus: Math
Pros: Adaptive learning, aligns with curriculum standards, motivates through gameplay
Cons: Some features require a subscription
Availability: Android, iOS, Web
Pricing: Freemium

Todo Math: This app covers a wide range of math topics with interactive games, puzzles, and activities, making learning fun and engaging.

Age: 3-8
Subject Focus: Math
Pros: Comprehensive math curriculum, customizable learning plans, progress tracking
Cons: Some activities might be challenging for younger preschoolers
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Freemium

DragonBox Numbers: Introduce basic number sense and arithmetic through playful interactions with colorful number blocks.

Age: 4-8
Subject Focus: Math, Number Sense
Pros: Intuitive interface, no reading required, encourages exploration
Cons: Can be a bit pricey
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Paid

Science and Exploration

The Cat in the Hat Builds That: Based on the Dr. Seuss book, this app encourages kids to experiment with simple machines and engineering concepts.

Age: 4-7
Subject Focus: Science, Engineering
Pros: Fun and interactive, promotes problem-solving and critical thinking
Cons: Can be a bit short in terms of content
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Paid

Tinybop: The Human Body: Explore the human body with interactive animations and detailed illustrations, learning about different organs and systems.

Age: 4+
Subject Focus: Science, Human Body
Pros: Beautiful visuals, encourages curiosity, no ads or in-app purchases
Cons: Can be a bit text-heavy for younger preschoolers
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Paid

Sky Map: Turn your device into a virtual planetarium, identifying stars, constellations, and planets in the night sky.

Age: All ages
Subject Focus: Science, Astronomy
Pros: Completely free, easy to use, great for stargazing
Cons: Requires a clear view of the sky
Availability: Android
Pricing: Free

Social-Emotional Development

Daniel Tiger’s Grr-ific Feelings: Help Daniel Tiger and his friends navigate various emotions and social situations through interactive stories and games.

Age: 2-5
Subject Focus: Social-Emotional Learning
Pros: Familiar characters, teaches valuable lessons about feelings and friendships
Cons: Limited activities in the free version
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Freemium

Breathe, Think, Do with Sesame: Learn calming techniques and problem-solving strategies with Sesame Street characters through interactive games and animations.

Age: 2-5
Subject Focus: Social-Emotional Learning, Mindfulness
Pros: Teaches coping skills, encourages self-regulation, completely free
Cons: Some activities might be too simple for older preschoolers
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Free

III. Apps for Elementary School (Ages 6-10)

Focus: Reinforcing academic skills, fostering independent learning, and promoting critical thinking.

Math and Science

Khan Academy: This comprehensive app offers a vast library of lessons and exercises covering math, science, and other subjects, allowing elementary schoolers to learn at their own pace.

Age: All ages
Subject Focus: Math, Science, Humanities
Pros: Completely free, personalized learning pathways, progress tracking
Cons: Can be a bit text-heavy for younger learners
Availability: Android, iOS, Web
Pricing: Free

Mystery Science: Engage children with interactive science lessons and experiments that explore fascinating topics like the solar system, weather patterns, and animal adaptations.

Age: 5-10
Subject Focus: Science
Pros: Hands-on activities, fosters curiosity, teacher resources available
Cons: Requires a subscription for full access
Availability: Web (with some mobile compatibility)
Pricing: Paid

Mathletics: This app combines gamified learning with a structured math curriculum, helping elementary students master key concepts and improve their problem-solving skills.

Age: 5-16
Subject Focus: Math
Pros: Adaptive learning, aligned with curriculum standards, rewards and incentives
Cons: Requires a subscription
Availability: Android, iOS, Web
Pricing: Paid

Reading and Writing

ReadingIQ: A digital library with thousands of books categorized by reading level and interest, helping children develop reading fluency and comprehension skills.

Age: 2-12
Subject Focus: Reading
Pros: Huge selection of books, leveled reading, progress tracking
Cons: Requires a subscription
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Paid

Storybird: This app sparks creativity and encourages writing through interactive storytelling prompts and beautiful illustrations.

Age: 6+
Subject Focus: Writing, Creativity
Pros: Inspires imagination, collaborative storytelling features, publishing options
Cons: Some features require a subscription
Availability: iOS, Web
Pricing: Freemium

Grammaropolis: Learn grammar rules and parts of speech through engaging animations and interactive games, making grammar fun and accessible.

Age: 8-12
Subject Focus: Grammar
Pros: Visual learning, reinforces grammar concepts, catchy songs
Cons: Can be a bit silly for older elementary students
Availability: iOS
Pricing: Paid

Coding and STEM

ScratchJr: A visual programming language designed for young children, allowing them to create interactive stories, games, and animations.

Age: 5-7
Subject Focus: Coding, Creativity
Pros: Completely free, intuitive interface, fosters problem-solving skills
Cons: Can be challenging for some children to grasp initially
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Free

LEGO Education SPIKE Prime: Combine LEGO building with coding to create and program robots, encouraging hands-on learning and STEM exploration.

Age: 10+
Subject Focus: Coding, Robotics, STEM
Pros: Engaging and hands-on, promotes teamwork and collaboration
Cons: Requires purchasing the LEGO SPIKE Prime set
Availability: iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Chromebook
Pricing: App is free, LEGO set is paid

Tynker: This app offers a variety of coding courses and games, teaching children to code using popular programming languages like Python and JavaScript.

Age: 5+
Subject Focus: Coding
Pros: Wide range of courses, gamified learning, progress tracking
Cons: Requires a subscription for full access
Availability: Android, iOS, Web
Pricing: Freemium

Language Learning

Duolingo: A popular language-learning app that makes learning a new language fun and accessible through bite-sized lessons and gamified challenges.

Age: All ages
Subject Focus: Language Learning
Pros: Free to use, wide variety of languages, progress tracking
Cons: Can be repetitive for some learners
Availability: Android, iOS, Web
Pricing: Freemium

Gus on the Go: Learn a new language through interactive stories and games featuring Gus the owl and his friends.

Age: 3-8
Subject Focus: Language Learning
Pros: Engaging stories, focus on vocabulary and pronunciation
Cons: Limited number of languages available
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Paid

Little Pim: Introduce young children to a new language through short videos featuring real kids and everyday vocabulary.

Age: 0-6
Subject Focus: Language Learning
Pros: Immersion-based approach, focus on early language acquisition
Cons: Can be a bit pricey
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Paid

IV. Apps for Specific Learning Needs

Focus: Providing tailored support for children with dyslexia, ADHD, or other learning challenges.

Dyslexia Support

Dyslexia Quest: A comprehensive app that assesses and supports children with dyslexia through multisensory games and activities that improve phonological awareness, reading fluency, and comprehension.

Age: 7-11
Subject Focus: Dyslexia Support, Reading
Pros: Evidence-based approach, personalized learning plans, progress tracking
Cons: Can be a bit pricey
Availability: iOS
Pricing: Paid

Nessy Reading & Spelling: This app uses a multisensory approach to teach phonics, reading, and spelling skills, making learning fun and engaging for children with dyslexia.

Age: 5-11
Subject Focus: Dyslexia Support, Reading, Spelling
Pros: Engaging games and activities, personalized learning, progress tracking
Cons: Requires a subscription
Availability: Android, iOS, Web
Pricing: Paid

Poio: A gamified reading app that helps children learn to read through interactive stories and activities, focusing on phonics and word recognition.

Age: 3-7
Subject Focus: Dyslexia Support, Reading
Pros: Playful and engaging, self-paced learning, no in-app purchases
Cons: Limited language support (currently only available in English and Norwegian)
Availability: iOS
Pricing: Paid

ADHD Support

Forest: Stay focused and productive by planting virtual trees that grow while you work. If you leave the app, your tree dies, encouraging you to stay on task.

Age: All ages
Subject Focus: Focus, Productivity
Pros: Simple and effective, gamified approach, customizable settings
Cons: Can be a bit too restrictive for some users
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Paid

Habitica: Turn your to-do list into a role-playing game, earning rewards and leveling up as you complete tasks and build positive habits.

Age: 13+ (recommended)
Subject Focus: Task Management, Habit Building
Pros: Gamified approach, customizable rewards, social features
Cons: Can be overwhelming for younger users
Availability: Android, iOS, Web
Pricing: Freemium

Time Timer: A visual timer that helps children understand the concept of time and stay on track with tasks and activities.

Age: All ages
Subject Focus: Time Management
Pros: Simple and intuitive, customizable colors and sounds, multiple timer options
Cons: The physical Time Timer is more effective for some users
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Paid

Other Learning Challenges

Otsimo: A personalized learning app for children with autism, offering a wide range of interactive activities and games that focus on communication, social skills, and cognitive development.

Age: 2+
Subject Focus: Autism Support, Communication, Social Skills
Pros: Data-driven progress tracking, customizable learning plans, parent resources
Cons: Requires a subscription
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Paid

Proloquo2Go: A symbol-based communication app that helps individuals with speech and language impairments express themselves and communicate effectively.

Age: All ages
Subject Focus: Communication, Speech and Language Impairments
Pros: Customizable vocabulary, natural-sounding voices, AAC compatibility
Cons: Can be expensive
Availability: iOS
Pricing: Paid

Avaz AAC: Another augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) app that helps individuals with communication challenges express themselves using symbols, pictures, and text-to-speech.

Age: All ages
Subject Focus: Communication, AAC
Pros: User-friendly interface, customizable vocabulary, multiple access methods
Cons: Requires a subscription
Availability: Android, iOS
Pricing: Paid

Tips for Parents and Educators

While educational apps offer numerous benefits, it’s important to use them thoughtfully and intentionally. Here are some tips for parents and educators:

Guidance on Integrating Apps into Learning

Choose the Right App:
- Consider your child’s age, interests, and learning style.
- Look for apps that align with your child’s developmental needs and curriculum goals.
- Read reviews and check ratings to ensure the app is high-quality and age-appropriate.
- Try out free versions or demos before purchasing paid apps.
Set Time Limits and Balance Screen Time:
- Establish clear guidelines for how much time your child can spend on educational apps each day.
- Encourage a balance of screen time and other activities, such as outdoor play, reading, and creative pursuits.
- Use parental control tools or app timers to manage screen time effectively.
Encourage Active Engagement:
- Talk to your child about what they’re learning from the app.
- Ask questions and encourage them to explain concepts in their own words.
- Play alongside your child and participate in the app activities together.
- Use the app as a springboard for further exploration and learning offline.

Additional Tips:

Monitor Progress: Many educational apps offer progress tracking features that allow you to see how your child is doing. Use this information to identify areas where they might need additional support or challenges.
Make it Fun: Learning should be enjoyable! Choose apps that are engaging and interactive, and encourage your child to explore and experiment.
Be Patient: Remember that every child learns at their own pace. Don’t get discouraged if your child doesn’t master a concept immediately. Just keep encouraging them and providing support.

Remember:

Technology is a tool, not a replacement for traditional learning experiences.
Use educational apps as a supplement to, not a substitute for, real-world interactions and hands-on activities.
The most important thing is to foster a love of learning in your child and support their curiosity and exploration.

By following these tips, parents and educators can effectively leverage educational apps to create a rich and rewarding learning environment for children.

best educational apps for kids to start learning

Conclusion

In an era where technology is woven into the fabric of our daily lives, educational apps present a remarkable opportunity to inspire and empower young minds. These digital tools, carefully curated and thoughtfully integrated, can ignite a passion for learning, cultivate critical thinking skills, and unlock the full potential of every child.

From fostering early literacy and numeracy to sparking curiosity about science and the world around us, the apps showcased in this article offer a wealth of resources for children of all ages and learning styles. By choosing apps that align with your child’s interests and developmental needs, you can create a personalized and enriching learning experience that complements traditional education.

Remember, the most effective use of educational apps involves active parental or educator participation. Engage with your child, ask questions, and celebrate their achievements. By fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, you’ll nurture a lifelong love of learning that extends far beyond the screen.

We encourage you to explore the apps featured in this article and discover the ones that resonate most with your child. We also value your feedback and insights. Please feel free to share your experiences with educational apps in the comments below or suggest additional apps you’d like us to review in the future. Let’s work together to build a brighter future for our children, one app at a time.

Got it, let’s retain the question-and-answer format, keeping the questions bold and separate, while ensuring the answers are written in a flowing paragraph style:

FAQs About Educational Apps for Kids

Discover answers to common questions about educational apps for kids. Find out how these tools enhance learning and fun for children.

1. What should I look for in an educational app?

When choosing an educational app, prioritize age appropriateness, educational value, engagement, and safety. Make sure the app is suitable for your child’s age and developmental stage. Look for apps that focus on specific skills or subjects and align with your child’s learning goals. To keep your child motivated, choose apps that are interactive, fun, and visually appealing. Always check reviews and ratings, and ensure the app has robust privacy settings.

2. Are these apps safe for children?

Rest assured, most reputable educational apps prioritize children’s safety. They adhere to strict privacy policies, offer content free of inappropriate material and excessive advertising, and often provide parental control features. However, it’s always recommended to supervise your child’s app usage, especially for younger children.

3. How can I evaluate the educational value of an app?

To gauge an app’s educational merit, consider its alignment with curriculum standards and clearly stated learning outcomes. Look for descriptions of the skills and concepts the app aims to teach. Expert recommendations and positive reviews from other parents and educators can also be helpful indicators of an app’s effectiveness.

4. How much screen time is appropriate for my child?

Finding the right balance of screen time is crucial. Refer to age-specific guidelines from trusted organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics and ensure screen time is complemented by other activities that promote physical, social, and emotional development. Remember, quality over quantity is key – choose apps that offer meaningful learning experiences.

5. Can educational apps replace traditional learning methods?

Educational apps are best used as a supplement to, not a replacement for, traditional learning methods like classroom instruction and hands-on activities. Embrace a blended learning approach that combines app-based learning with real-world experiences for a well-rounded education.

6. How can I make app-based learning more effective?

Actively participate in your child’s app-based learning experience. Engage with them, ask questions, and discuss what they’re learning. Help them connect the concepts they learn in the app to real-life situations. Offer a variety of apps to cater to their diverse interests and learning styles.

7. What if my child gets frustrated with an app?

If your child encounters frustration, provide support and guidance. Break down challenging tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. If an app continues to cause frustration, try a different one that might be a better fit for their learning style. Sometimes, taking a break from screen time and engaging in other activities can also be helpful.

8. Are there any free educational apps available?

Yes, there are many high-quality educational apps available for free or with free versions that offer limited features. Do some research to find free apps that align with your child’s needs and interests.

9. How can I ensure my child’s privacy while using educational apps?

Protecting your child’s privacy is paramount. Carefully read the app’s privacy policy to understand how your child’s data is collected and used. Be mindful of the permissions an app requests and only grant access to necessary features. Download apps from reputable app stores and developers.

10. Can educational apps help children with special needs?

Absolutely. Many apps are specifically designed to support children with learning challenges, such as dyslexia, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. These apps offer features like multisensory learning, adaptive feedback, and personalized learning plans to cater to their unique needs.

If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to app developers or educational experts for guidance.