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30 Best Educational iPad Games for Kids in 2024 (Free and Paid)

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Educational iPad Games for Kids including Stack the States and Sight Words Ninja

Tablets are a regular part of most kids’ routines these days, and teachers and parents can use that to their advantage. There are a lot of terrific iPad games for kids that are designed for learning but disguised as fun! Here are some of the best that cover reading, math, science, social studies, and more for kids of a variety of ages.

Free iPad Games for Kids

Screenshot from Duolingo with a sentence in Spanish and English

The earlier kids start to learn new languages, the better. When we’re young, our brains are more receptive to learning language in general. Duolingo no longer has a specific version just for kids (though they do have a reading program; see below). But the general app itself is still great for kids by upper elementary or so. It’s completely free, and offers more than 40 languages to explore. Teachers should check out Duolingo for Schools , too.

Duolingo ABC

Ages: Pre-K to Grade 1

The foreign language learning company has brought its same philosophy to teaching kids how to read. The entirely free lessons focus on phonics, phonemic awareness, fluency, and reading comprehension, all the skills emergent readers need. The lessons increase in difficulty as children progress, with tailored reviews to help kids strengthen skills they struggle with. It’s aligned with Common Core standards too.

PBS Kids Games

Ages: Pre-K to Grade 2

You know you can trust PBS to provide safe, fun, and educational iPad games for kids. Their collection features stars from popular shows like Daniel Tiger and the Wild Kratts, with hundreds of games on just about every subject. This is one iPad app every parent and teacher needs, especially since it’s all entirely free (and available in Spanish too!).

iCivics Games

Icons for iCivics' suite of iPad games for kids

Ages: Middle and High School

iCivics has a suite of terrific social studies games that kids will truly enjoy playing. They’ll feel like they’re right in the action as they try to get a new law ratified, run in an election, or try a case in court. These apps are all free, and their website has lots of excellent accompanying resources for teachers.

Bedtime Math

$Screenshot from Bedtime Math iPad app$

Ages: Pre-K to Grade 3

Bedtime stories are a longstanding tradition, but what about bedtime math? That’s what this free app, along with its accompanying books , aims to do. Each day, the app adds a new fun math problem for parents and kids to do together. (Teachers could also use them as daily problems in the classroom.) Each math problem has three levels of difficulty, and many offer challenge questions too.

Little Alchemy 2

Ages: K to 12

Starting with just a few basic elements (air, earth, fire, and water), players mix these to create dozens of new items, both real and imaginary. For instance, mix water and earth to get clay, then mix clay and fire to make bricks, add brick to brick to build a wall, and so on. This robust free game is completely engrossing, and it encourages both creativity and logical thinking.

World Geography Quiz Game

Ages: Grades 3 to 12

This isn’t one of those iPad games for kids full of animated characters and flashy graphics. It’s a straight-up geography quiz game and a very good one. Kids who are into maps and globes will enjoy checking their knowledge of flags, capital cities, statistics, and much more. The game is free to download and play; you have the option to buy “hints,” but they’re not necessary to enjoy the fun.

Sushi Monster

Ages: Grades 2 to 6

Looking for a fun way to practice math facts? Check out this free app! Sushi Monster is hungry. Feed him the sushi plates to make the correct goal number and practice addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Lyrical Letters

Ages: Pre-K to Grade 12

Combine music with spelling and vocabulary in this charming game, enjoyable for anyone at any age. Listen to the sequence of notes, then play them back to spell the right word. You can also simply play around with the keyboard and synthesizer functions, composing tunes just for fun. Lyrical Letters is free to download and play; you can remove the in-game ads for $1.99.

Ages: Grade 4 and up

Build vocabulary and work on spelling with this innovative word game. As you connect letters to make a word, they disappear from the board, collapsing others around them. New letters are always rising from the bottom, though, so you’ll have to think quickly to stop them from reaching the top and ending the game. The game is free to download, but many reviewers note that it’s ad-heavy; pay $4.99 to unlock the full version.

More Great Educational iPad Games for Kids

Screenshot of Pok Pok iPad game for kids

Think of this collection of iPad games for kids as your personal set of Montessori activities on the go. From busy boards and blocks to music sequencers and a marble machine, the youngest learners will find plenty to keep them engaged as they develop key skills. Pok Pok is subscription-based ($6.99/month or $45.99/year), with a free 7-day trial.

Hands-On Equations

Ages: Grades 4+

The Hands-On Equations iPad games teach algebra skills in a fun and engaging way. There are three levels available, plus Hands-On Equations Lite, a free version you can try to see if you like it. Level 1 covers the basics of equations, while 2 and 3 build up the difficulty to include order of operations and negative numbers. Levels 1, 2, and 3 range in price from $2.99 to $3.99 each.

Endless Alphabet

Ages: Pre-K

This iPad game has been around for awhile, but parents and kids both continue to love it. Kids build their vocabulary and alphabet knowledge through interactive games and fun animations. They’ll also enjoy the adorable monsters that join in on the game! Get Endless Alphabet for a one-time purchase price of $8.99.

Screenshots from the App Store for ABCmouse iPad game

ABCmouse is one of the most popular educational iPad games for kids who are learning to read, count, and more. They offer thousands of learning activities across the curriculum, including hundreds in Spanish. It requires a subscription ($12.99/month or $45/year), but you can try it for free for 30 days to see if you like it.

Adventure Academy

Ages: Grades 3 to 8

Adventure Academy is ABCmouse’s older cousin. Upper elementary and middle school students can learn math, science, language arts, and more. They’ll create their own avatar and make their way around a fully interactive school environment, learning as they go. It has the same subscription rates as ABCmouse ($12.99/month or $45/year).

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Screenshot from My Very Hungry Caterpillar iPad game

Ages: Pre-K to Kindergarten

Everyone’s favorite caterpillar is now available in an app! Play games to match colors and shapes, put together puzzles, and learn to take care of plants and animals. The app is free to download, but it costs $4.99 to unlock all of the available activities.

$Screenshot from Math Bingo iPad game$

Ages: Grades 1 to 5

Solve math problems and try to get five Bingo Bugs in a row. Be careful, though, because wrong answers will affect your end score. High scores earn you your very own Bingo Bugs for your collection! There are five modes: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and mixed. Math Bingo costs $2.99 to download and play.

Ages: Grades 3 and up

Everything you love about Mad Libs in an app! Kids will get sneaky practice in learning the parts of speech, while creating zany stories that make everyone laugh. You get a limited number of Mad Libs for free, with the ability to buy more packages starting at $1.99.

Sight Words Ninja

Ages: Grades 1 to 4

This is such a fun way to practice sight words! As various words appear on the screen, slice through the target word as fast as you can to score points. At only $1.99, this game is a terrific bargain and one that students will beg to play.

Wee ones will love helping Tim and his family as they learn colors and shapes. The game is available in multiple languages, so you can also use it to help kids learn basic words in Spanish, French, and more. Dino Tim is free to download and $2.99 to unlock all content.

Presidents vs. Aliens

Ages: Grade 3 and up

Learn more about U.S. presidents while you battle aliens in this silly but informative game. As you answer the questions and beat each level, you add a new president to your collection. Then, you can fling these presidents at the aliens to help defend the planet! The app costs $1.99 to download but has no in-game ads and doesn’t require any additional purchases to play. Kids will need to be able to read to play on their own.

Ages: K to Grade 4

This subscription-based iPad game for kids promises to make learning math fun and engaging. Kids set out on missions to earn monsters by solving math puzzles. This is a program that can grow with any child, starting with very basic counting skills and building through to multiplication and division. After a 7-day free trial, the program costs $7.99 a month or $49.99 annually.

Where’s My Water?

Ages: Kindergarten and Up

Swampy lives in the sewers under the city, but he loves to stay clean! His shower is constantly getting stopped up, though, so kids need` to dig through the dirt and avoid obstacles to guide the fresh water to Swampy. This game is a lot of fun, but it’s based on real physics and the movement of water, so they’ll learn while they play. This Disney game costs $1.99 to download and includes additional storylines for purchase.

Stack the States 2

Screenshot from Stack the States iPad game

Ages: Grade 3 and Up

Learn U.S. geography the fun way by answering questions and building your own collection of states. Kids master state capitals, cities, landmarks, flags, and more. The app costs $2.99 to download and play, with no ads or other in-app purchases to worry about.

Teach Your Monster to Read

They say the best way to learn something is to teach it to another. That’s the idea behind this popular iPad game, where kids “teach” a monster to read while learning the skills themselves. It covers early reading skills, from letter recognition through phonics and word-building. Download and play for $8.99.

Monster Physics

Kids who love to tinker will get a real kick out of this game. They can design and build their own inventions, then see how (and if!) they would work in the real world. There are 50 different missions for them to invent and conquer alongside their own monster avatar. At only $1.99 to download, with no in-game ads, this one is definitely worth a look.

Cut the Rope

Ages: Kindergarten and up

This game has been around for a while, but it’s popular for a reason. The concept is simple: arrange the objects on the screen and then cut the rope to release the candy into the hungry monster’s mouth. The laws of physics apply here, so kids will learn without even knowing it. The levels get progressively more challenging as you play. Cut the Rope costs $1.99 to download, with the ability to buy hints, solutions, and more puzzles in the app.

Slice Fractions

Ages: Grades 1 to 6

Learn fractions in an interactive environment as you slice through ice and lava to clear the mammoth’s path. There’s no reading involved in this game, so kids can focus purely on numbers and fractions. Slice Fractions costs $3.99 to download and play.

Ages: Grades 2 to 12

You don’t need any coding experience to play this game; you’ll learn as you go. Solve puzzles by guiding a robot to light up tiles with basic commands. Multiple players can save their progress on the same device, so this one’s great for classrooms or families. Some reading is required, but otherwise, even little ones can play on their own. Lightbot costs $2.99 to download and play, without the need for in-app purchases.

Reading Raven

This well-reviewed app teaches basic reading and writing skills, starting with letter recognition and tracing. As their skills advance, so do the challenges, until they’re able to practice reading aloud using voice recording. Reading Raven is a one-time cost of $3.99 to download and play, with no in-game ads.

Did we miss one of your favorite iPad games for kids? Come share your thoughts in the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, our favorite online games that are fun and educational too ., you might also like.

40 Subtraction Activities That Are Nothing Less Than Awesome

Your students will love these hands-on ideas. Continue Reading

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Best iPad Games for 4-5 Year Old Kids (2021)

Do you own an iPad? Are your kids yearning for a chance to play on it? if so, we got you sorted! in this article, we feature 10 of the best games for your 4–5-year-old kids. Let’s get into it!

Quick links :

Crazy Gears

Dragonbox algebra 5+, monument valley, way of the turtle, angry birds 2, sago mini world, lego duplo world.

Price: $2.99

Crazy Gears is one of the best iPad games for toddlers thanks to its ease-of-play and scenes intended to marvel at a kid. The game is available on iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad. The game is based on STEM topics so you can rest assured that your kid will develop and hone his or her critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

The game takes the kid through numerous challenges through which they have to find a way to the next level. This involves dragging and dropping items to let the ball travel to the next stage. Items increase as the kid goes up the levels.

Price: $4.99

This is yet another stellar game for your 4- or 5-year-old kid. Supported on Android and iOS devices, the game allows the kid to learn the basics of algebra. It is easy to play and adds much-needed education value to your kid.

All that a kid needs to do is to drag and drop cards on trays in a bid to solve the x equation. As the kid progresses through the levels, mathematical concepts such as symbols, numbers, and letters begin to appear.

Price: $3.99

Monument Valley is one of the best iPad games for kids. In fact, it is also a favorite among Android users. Besides, it’s been around for quite a while and still boasts of unmatched popularity. In this game, the kid has to guide Princess Ida through a host of mazes and other objects. the artwork is also exceptional, guaranteed to keep the child hooked.

iPad Air 5 (2022) Accessories

Price: free

way of the Turtle is an adventurous simple game that involves the kid following the journey of two turtles in a bid to reunite them. Developed by Illusion Labs, the turtles are stranded on a strange island full of mystery and evil magic.

However, there are lots of good friends such as the gophers who will help your kid to get the turtles back home. As the kid goes through obstacles, he or she collects better shells with exceptional power. And your kid will love the colorful tropical island adventure and the 3D concept that bolsters the game’s cinematics.

if there is one of the most popular iPad games for toddlers, it has to be Angry Birds 2. Played by millions across the world, the game introduces your kid to lots of adventure and fun activities. It even allows the kid to team up with other players to create powerful clans. It has daily challenges that your kid can try when free.

And as he or she progresses through the levels, so do his powers, abilities, and followers. To prove his or her skills, there are lots of one-on-one competitions to proves who’s worth the buck. And the best part, they get to enjoy this for free.

Gathering over 8.2K reviews, Dr. Panda Town is no doubt one of the best iPad games for kids. The game needs the kid to follow through with Dr. Panda’s day and learn from his experience. The whole experience is based on the kid’s creativity whereby he or she is in charge of the town and other doctors’ belongings.

You can visit malls in your town, go for a shopping spree, and even take a vacation in more than seven of the available exotic islands. It allows the kid to experience real-life situations without having to pay a penny.

Dodo Peak game will have your kid play as a dodo bird who is trying to save its eggs. But it is not an easy endeavor, the kid will have to overcome obstacles such as snakes and monkeys that want its eggs. And as he or she passes the obstacles, coins are awarded.

It comes with lots of challenges such as returning the eggs within 30 seconds. What the kid gets is a beautiful mind-blowing interface, simple to use controls, numerous environments such as hills, islands, and volcanoes, and leaderboards for that competitive edge.

If your kids are into music, then this could be a perfect game for them. This musical puzzle game affords the kid with soothing rhythms as they seek solutions. In fact, this app teaches kids about problem-solving without them knowing it. they have to move spirits to the rightful places, and once in place, press the red button for the music to play. They don’t get bombarded with ads or timers.

Sago Mini World comes with lots of games such as Mini Friends and more. the game hones the creativity, problem-solving skills, and empathy of your kids through numerous challenges. They choose their desired character with whom they visit homes and play other games with them. The game series has gone on to win numerous awards such as the Parents’ Choice Gold Award.

Do your kids love car toys? Well, why not get them this game. It features lots of cars, trains, buildings, animals, and more allowing them to create a world of their imagination. The free “Number Train” arms your kid with necessary preschool mathematics skills. In short, the kid will have fun creating lots of towns, growing crops, and enjoying airplane adventures.

Final verdict

Well, while we don’t advocate your kids to replace their entire physical toys for iPad games, these games will no doubt improve your kids’ soft skills. As we have seen, they improve critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These are crucial whether in school or everyday life.

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Best Educational iPad Games

iPads for kids are quickly becoming a popular and powerful educational tool at home. iPad games for kids are being used in education around the world with great success. Come home with an iPad and your kids are going to want to play iPad games with it.

Lots of iPad games for kids are fun and genuinely interesting. Every game for iPad has an age-specific rating so that you can tell if the game is right for your child. We've taken care to play every game, so you know it's definitely worth a download. Whether you're new to iPad gaming or are just looking for your next game to download, here are my top picks for iPad games.

Check out the best educational iPad games that are fun and engaging for children of all ages.

Best iPad Educational Games

1. Kids Academy

Kids Academy is one of the best iPad game for young learners. Their innovative program blends cutting-edge adaptive technology, artificial intelligence, custom learning paths, and game-like elements to enhance children's learning experience. It makes learning engaging and effective by offering interactive games across subjects like Math, Reading, Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies.

Ages: 3 and over

Related: Puzzle Games

2. MentalUP Educational Games

MentalUP Educational Games for iPad offer learners a variety of problem-solving experiences and critical thinking challenges. The games start with concise instructions before launching into timed exercises. Users can customize the app to focus on specific skills and consider the player's age. It includes a reports page for tracking progress and achievements, and players can personalize their avatars with in-game currency earned by succeeding in games.

Ages: 5 and over

Related: Best brain training apps

3. PBS KIDS Games

PBS Kids Games is a top iPad game for kids, offering over 25 games featuring popular PBS Kids characters. It provides preschoolers with hours of entertainment and education across various activities like pattern matching, racing, and music. The games teach basics about weather, sea life, shapes, and more, while also developing reading skills and strategic thinking. The app regularly updates with new games, expanding its educational content. It's a free and effective choice for interactive learning with beloved children's TV characters.

4. Adventure Academy

Adventure Academy is a multiplayer game for elementary and middle school students, offering thousands of learning activities across subjects like math, reading, science, and social studies. Kids explore these through quests in a virtual world. The activities include videos, games, quizzes, and interactive elements aligned with U.S. and international curriculum standards.

Ages: 9 and over

5. Science Games for Kids - Tappity

K-5 Science for Kids - Tappity is a great app that is like having the perfect science teacher available for children all of the time. The app includes 200+ science lessons, activities, and stories in a curriculum designed for kids ages 4-10. Their content is aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards for K-5th Grade.

6. Word Beach: Fun Spelling Games

Word Beach is an ideal iPad game for children aged 6 and older, enhancing their attention, language development, and spatial awareness. This word puzzle game improves their spelling skills, introduces new words, and reinforces the spellings of irregular words. The game involves finding words from letters of a longer word, with progress to the next level upon completion. With hundreds of levels and regular updates, it offers lasting engagement. A daily challenge, presented as a simple crossword, adds variety.

Ages: 6 and above

Related: Best free games for kids

7. Kids Brain Games

Kids Brain Games is a fun iPad game for kids. The games are challenging children to develop their thinking skills. The variety of puzzles is excellent and cover many different topics and ways of thinking. One moment your child will be matching clocks to times and the next mentally rotating a scene to find its mirror image. Both of these have an element of maths to them but other challenges cover words, problem solving, planning, memory, general knowledge and all sorts of other aspects.

Ages: 5 and under

8. ABCya Games

ABCYa is an educational game for iPad designed for kids in grades K-5, categorizing games by grade and subjects such as letters, numbers, and holidays. The game collection includes arcade, word find, racing, and typing games, among others, with examples ranging from Alphabetical Order for kindergarteners to Division Drag Race for fifth graders. ABCya! allows children to identify their learning levels and select games that meet their educational needs.

9. Coding Games For Kids To Play

Coding Games for kids is a popular iPad game for kids that teaches sequential visual coding. The app comes with an array of free games and encourages children to solve problems, improve logical thinking and increase their memory in a fun and interactive environment. Its fun way to get kids to learn and problems solve in fun way with cool characters and plenty of great games to choose from.

20 Teacher Approved iPad Apps for Kids

Preparing kids for the 21st century means exposing them to technology. And for many kids, that means spending some time on an iPad. But what iPad apps are best for kids?

With so many iPad apps on the market for kids these days, it can be hard to know which ones are age-appropriate and purposeful, so I went on a hunt to gather together my favorite 20, teacher-approved suggestions.

When you’re done with the list, take our 5 Day Challenge where you can set up a STEM system that works for your classroom, as well as STEM centers your students will love!

The list includes favorite math games, building apps, reading activities… loads of ideas that will keep kids entertained and learning at the same time!

Whether you’re looking for ways to incorporate iPads into your classroom or you need a quick way to entertain the kids on a long flight, these 20 teacher-approved iPad apps are sure to do the trick.

iPad Apps for Kids: Ages 3 to 5

Learn with Homer is one of those multi-purpose apps. It includes storybooks, learn to read games, drawing… but my favorite feature is its post office. Children can send and receive digital postcards from pre-approved family and friends. It’s a brilliant and easy way to encourage long distance communication with far away relatives.

I’m a big fan of the Words Their Way Spelling Program because of how nicely it identifies what kids already know and what skills they need to work on next. So I was thrilled when This Reading Mama developed an Alphabet Sounds Word Study app based on the series. It’s a perfect combo of motivating and developmentally-appropriate!

Another great iPad app for kids? One of the most popular preschool apps on the market is ABC Mouse Early Learning Academy and there’s a good reason why. The engaging games take the guesswork out of teaching kids how to read – leading them through alphabet sounds, word families, sight words and more.

When kids are ready to learn about numbers , Kids Academy free apps are a great way to go. The preschool-friendly lessons include games, stories and songs that help kids grow a strong number concept.

And speaking of math, kiddos will love learning about shapes and counting with Preschool Math · Basic Skills School . It won a Parent’s Choice Award so you know it’s good!

PBS KIDS offers a free app giving you access to their most popular kid-appropriate shows including “Curious George” and “Wild Kratts.”

Work on writing alphabet letters with a playful round of Trace it, Try it – Thomas Wilson . The program practices letter names, letter sounds and (of course!) letter writing at once. It’s a three-in-one!

$Teacher approved iPad apps for kids. Lots of great ideas - math games, building projects, reading apps...$

iPad Apps for Kids: Ages 5 to 8

Once kids tackle letter sounds, they’re ready to move on to reading short, three-letter words . This Reading Mama’s Short Vowel Word Study app is a motivating way to practice sounding and spelling CVC words. My kids could sit and play the games for hours if I’d let them!

Learn with Homer focuses on helping kids learn to read by providing entertaining storybooks, learn to read games and drawing activities. But what sets it apart is its digital post office where children can send and receive cards from pre-approved family and friends. It’s a genius way to get kids reading and writing!

Make building vocabulary a blast with Ellen Degeneres’ high energy game, Heads Up!

Practice reading sight words and writing alphabet letters with Ollie’s Handwriting & Phonics , a two-in-one app developed by a teacher.

Get kids excited about learning sight words by playing Sight Words Ninja ! There’s an alphabet and number version, too!

Kids who love puzzles will go crazy for Free Flow – a pipe building game that challenges kids to connect matching dots with pipes to create a flow.

And speaking of building, Block Craft 3D gives young iPaders practice creating and growing cities . (My six year-old is obsessed with gaining villagers and adding to his virtual town!)

Sushi Monster makes math fact practice fun by having kids gobble plates of numbered sushi to make a target addition sum or multiplication product.

Work on memorizing multiplication facts as you play “Show Me” and “Peek” in the Multiplication Flashcard Quiz and Match Games App for 2nd graders and up .

For hours of entertainment on the go, play That’s Baloney! a kids’ quiz game filled with out of the box facts. Is the largest living spider a camel spider… or is that baloney?!

And finally, for those just-want-to-play kinda’ days, Despicable Me: Minion Rush and Crossy Road are guaranteed to be hits!

5 Day Challenge

Take our 5 Day Challenge where you can set up a STEM system that works for your classroom, as well as STEM centers your students will love!

Mitten Counting Mats

Odd and Even Activity Sheets

STEM Pattern Block Challenges

Scientific Method Posters

Fraction Puzzles

Robot Addition Cards

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Top 18 best educational kids games for iPhone and iPad (iOS)

Some scholarly kids games to play on your iPhone and iPad

Children are put in front of screens quite often these days, and with the variety of educational and kid-friendly apps, I totally understand why. However, note that none of these educational kids' games will substitute the real methodical education, they are rather here to keep them interested and hooked up to learn and educate themselves!

If you’d like your child to lean towards the more scholarly route when it comes to their screen time, we have compiled a list of the best educational games that are children friendly to play on your iOS device! That said, I’d also suggest picking up a strong case if you’re going to let young ones play!

Take a quick glance at our list of the best free phone games in 2023 !

Click through below to find out what are, in our opinion, the 18 best educational kids' games on iPhone & iPad.

1 Metamorphabet

Metamorphabet is the most wonderful alphabet-learning game out there. Each screen shows you a letter that you can pinch, zoom, tap, and otherwise play with to reveal words that start with this letter. A calm voice reads you the words, tells you what the letter is called and allows you to explore.

Once you have discovered all the words that letter has to offer, a star appears, and in your own time, you can tap to move on to the next letter. It’s a very engaging way to look at the alphabet.

2 Ruffy the Husky: On Ice

Taking you into the article, Ruffy the Husky: On Ice gives you an adorable dog to help you solve a bunch of different little puzzles and games. This app can help children identify shapes, learn to count, listen to animal noises, practice speaking and more. There are a bunch of other cute characters that are also featured, from penguins to seals, which will keep any animal lover captivated as they learn more.

The top one, however, would have to be the husky. This smart dog has a super entertaining way of teaching toddlers and pre-schoolers the shapes, numbers and alphabet, and have a blast while doing so.

Tappity is a science game for ages 4 and up, which breaks down a variety of topics from outer space, to dinosaurs, to tectonic plates and explains them in bite-sized games that any child will enjoy. It's one of our top picks in terms of educational apps because it showcases a little bit of everything.

The game has its own teacher, who walks you through each area, explaining more as you go along. There are interactive experiences, choices to be made, and more in this game, which really brings a fun twist to education!

4 Oinky the Piggy: On Farm

More for toddlers and preschoolers, Oinky the Piggy: On Farm allows younger children to solve sliding puzzles, and then interact with animals. This game is completely focused on barnyard animals, introducing them to the player through these sliding puzzles, before allowing the player to watch them play around on the farm, eat, grow and make sounds.

It’s a familiar world as every child has grown up playing some sort of farmyard game, understanding animals, but this time it’s taken to the digital world. The best part, however, has to be the puzzles. They're as entertaining as physical puzzles and equally challenging.

5 Masha and the Bear Educational

Masha and the Bear Educational is a single app that has a lot of different mini-games within the app that showcase different learning skills. Masha and the Bear is a children's TV show, so this game has the two main characters of that TV show going on an adventure! On the main screen of the game, children can pick from a bunch of different categories; math-related games, spelling games, reading games, and even musical games. Each category then has a bunch of simple to play games within them, that showcase this skill. It's great for children who like playing a variety of games and jump between them quickly.

6 The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Based on the classic children’s book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar has a lot to offer in its 3D book form, providing a variety of games which help you learn to count, sort and about healthy eating (we wouldn’t want our caterpillar eating too many sweets!) Sprinkled between games are facts about real-life animals - which are just as fun to learn about after you’ve been playing.

This beautiful app is the equivalent of the physical 3D book, with pop-ups and what looks like stunning hand-drawn graphics. It's brilliant.

7 Coco – Educational Game

Another variety game for younger players, aged 5 to 10 years old, Coco focuses on a bunch of children’s puzzles, from math games to memory games to keep children entertained.

The interface for this game is quite soft in color and design, which is quite appealing for children both young and old, and the variety of puzzles and games are very nice - it is worth noting that the game does work for free for a week, then is subscription-based, depending on what you want to use it for.

8 Pinky the Hippo: In the Wild

Pinky the Hippo: In the Wild focuses on teaching children age two and up about colours, jungle animals, and languages. The interface is very child-friendly, with cute animals that can easily have their environment coloured and explored. You can see their shelters and their world, as well as learn about the noises they make. You can also learn different languages through the app, learning how words are said and should sound.

It's an app that will be well-liked by kids, with beautiful graphics and an entertaining play style. That's exactly what makes it one of the best educational kids games for iPhones even today.

9 Endless Alphabet

Endless Alphabet is an interesting app where you are able to select a word, then watch the letters run away, and bring them back to place. These letters are lifelike, wiggling and attempting to get away, but once the word is complete, they all animate together and the game explains what the word means, teaching you exactly what you have been creating.

This is much more than teaching the alphabet. It brings a lot of joy to reading, so it's on our list of best educational kids games for iOS for a reason. Make sure you check it out.

10 Baby Panda's School Bus

Baby Panda's School Bus is a bright and colorful game that has children taking on a bunch of different puzzles, that they can learn from! The game has a big focus on buckling up and driving the bus around, going to various locations where mini-games are waiting. Your child will be taking children to the hospital for check ups, rescuing people who have gotten themselves into dangerous situations, and even bringing your car to a car wash! There are little mini-games around understanding numbers and colors, as well as learning day to day skills. It's a really well made kid's game!

11 Montessorium: Intro to Colors

A look into coloring, Montessorium: Intro to Colors aims to teach you the basic foundations of primary and secondary colors, shades, gradients, names of colors, mixing colors, and practicing fine motor skills. You are able to paint canvases, bringing the world to life in your own way. There are recaps throughout the app, testing to see if you can listen to the name of a color, find it, and select it.

This game is not only beautiful but also oddly satisfying. You'll get to enjoy a world filled with colour and gradients, and let's be honest - it is great for adults too (if you want a beautiful and relaxing game)!

12 Star Walk Kids: Astronomy Game

Made for children aged 6 and above, Star Walk Kids teaches you more about the galaxy. Unlike other apps about the stars, this game is kid-friendly, providing a good interface for younger audiences. You can explore the solar system, see constellations, find the ISS and Hubble - as well as view different animated videos that give more facts and details about what can be found in outer space.

It’s a great dive into the world beyond ours. It should really be included on the list of educational games that you'd play with your kids on your iPhone.

13 Where's My Water? 2

What should you do when your kid does not want to play a regular educational game? That's right! You should find a game that will be both useful and exciting for your child. Where's My Water? 2 is a great game where your kid will have to solve puzzles and complete levels.

In the game, you will find more than 100 interesting levels, cute graphics, and an adorable soundtrack. Moreover, you will find challenge modes that make the puzzles more complicated for older children. Also, your kid can use the hints if he gets stuck.

14 Quick Math Jr.

Quick Math Jr. allows you to adjust the difficulty depending on the age, for 3 and up, learning through different maths games as you play. Questions can be answered in the form of multiple-choice or you can use your finger (or a stylist) to write in the answers, practicing handwriting as you learn.

Quick Math Jr. also has little monster characters that you can create, to help you connect with the games that you are playing. It's actually quite fun from an adult perspective and makes math pleasant and easy to learn for children.

15 Shape Gurus

Shape Gurus aims to teach younger children to identify shapes and place them into their slots, creating larger pictures that can then come to life. They can play mini-games where they must find the shape that doesn’t match the others and ones that can be sorted by size. Creating pictures is where the real fun begins, as shapes are placed into slots, creating more of a picture.

This is the ideal game for pre-schoolers, and it's easy to see why - it's simple to get into, it's fun, and it's highly educational. Everything you could want in one place.

16 Minecraft: Education Edition

Minecraft is a big platform that works like a game engine. Inside the game, you can make a bunch of different content, mechanics, and add interactive elements.

In addition, Minecraft is understandable to children. It is easy to learn due to its simplicity and accessibility, plus, it is convenient that the game has a large children's audience. That is why Minecraft has become a popular tool in education: it is a convenient platform for creating content, and the interest of children around the world in it is huge.

17 Math Bingo

Math Bingo does exactly what the name says - allows younger children to play bingo by answering math questions and putting little bugs on the correct number of a bingo card. To make things more challenging, a timer can be added to see if you can answer the math question in a swift manner. Though the game itself is simple, it’s a fun way to practice mental math.

And with Math Bingo we are closing our list of best educational kids' games for iPhone and iPad! Hopefully, you found the games you were looking for on this list, and if you've got some more title suggestions for us, make sure to let us know!

18 Sago Mini World

Sago Mini World is a game full of games - with over 40 to choose from, there is a lot to keep a young one busy! Instead of focusing on Math and Reading skills, Sago Mini World focuses on understanding feelings and being accepting. There are diverse characters that your child can meet and help out. They can learn what makes characters happy and what makes them frustrated or upset. There is also a lot of freeform play, so kids can build confidence while playing this game!

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Best kids’ apps & games for iPhone/iPad

Put a child in the same room as an iPad or an iPhone and they will instinctively reach for it. Perhaps it’s the bright colours and the feel of the touchscreen; the simplicity of the interface in iOS and iPadOS also plays a part. No matter the reason, kids love messing with smartphones and tablets.

Mobile devices can do a great job entertaining and educating your offspring, but not all apps are created equal. In this article we present the apps and games most beloved of our editors and their children; there’s a blend here of learning, creativity and fun.

Best kids’ apps: Ages 5 and under

Here are our recommendations for children aged 5 and under. Age guidance is approximate, of course, and you won’t need to be told that kids learn and mature at different speeds.

Be sure also to click through to the App Store using the links provided. Have a look at screenshots, any available preview videos and so on, to see if the difficulty, complexity and reading level are appropriate for your child.

Best kids' apps for iPad & iPhone: Bloom

Price: £3.99/$3.99 ( Bloom on the App Store )
Age rating: 4+

There are tools for making music and others that are more about experimenting with sound. Bloom is an iPhone take on the latter, a collaboration between software designer Peter Chilvers and musician Brian Eno that enables you to explore generative audio composition.

That probably all sounds a bit highbrow for kids, but it really isn’t in practice. Essentially, you tap on the screen to play a note, which eventually loops. Keep tapping and a composition appears. It’s a beautiful, relaxing app, and simple enough that even a two-year-old can grasp the basics of how it works.

Price: Free ( Dino Tim on the App Store )
Age rating: 4+ (made for ages 3-6)

Dino Tim’s family has been abducted by witches, and kids have to solve various educational puzzles in order to save them. The game involves solving colour and geometric shape puzzles, as well as running, flying, jumping and even a little bit of magic.

The aim of the game is to teach kids to recognise basic geometric shapes, as well as to learn about colours and even their first words. The game has been fully translated into a number of languages (French, Spanish and Italian to list a few) which provides your child with a great opportunity to learn a foreign language in a fun way, from a young age.

Endless Alphabet

Price: £8.99/$8.99 ( Endless Alphabet on the App Store )
Age rating: 4+ (made for 5 and under)

Endless Alphabet proves that dialling down the surreal doesn’t mean an app about letters has to be boring. On the contrary, Endless Alphabet is a lot of fun as you choose a word, watch the letters scatter, and drag them back into place.

The letters come to life when touched, wriggling under your fingers, and once the word is complete, you’re treated to a little animation that explains what the word means.

It’s more expensive than many of the apps listed here, but hugely popular on the App Store with hundreds of positive reviews.

Laugh & Learn Shapes & Colors

Price: Free ( Laugh & Learn on the App Store )

Designed for babies and toddlers, this app from Fisher-Price offers two simple games. In the first, you tap to hear the name of a shape and tilt the device to make it bounce around. In the second, there’s a keyboard to prod, and each shape has its own song to sing along to. This is, in all honesty, not a terribly elegant app, but in our experience it seems captivating to tiny humans grappling with technology for the first time.

Price: £1.99/$1.99 ( Miximal on the App Store )

There’s nothing especially innovative about Miximal – it’s yet another of those sliding games, where you make strange combinations of animals. But what sets Miximal apart from its peers is the sense of craft and care that’s gone into the app.

The style is cartoonish, yet all of the animals are very recognisable. Each is animated, too.

Tap one of the sections and it moves and jiggles. Fashion a ‘complete’ animal and it will offer a celebratory alternate animation. Additionally, if your child wonders at any point what strange mixed-up creature is currently on the screen, a quick tap of the play button will give you (and read out) its name.

The Monster at the End of This Book with Grover!

Price: £4.99/$4.99 ( The Monster at the End of This Book on the App Store )

This updated and improved digital version of the classic Sesame Theme-themed kids’ book is a lot of fun. As Grover performs, the words appear on the screen, highlighted as they’re spoken. And you can interact with the app by touching a knot, for example, to make it unravel. Tap Grover to tickle him.

Monster Mingle

Price: £2.99/$2.99 ( Monster Mingle on the App Store )

There’s a lot to be said for exploration and play when a child is developing. Monster Mingle’s free-play nature makes it ideal for such things.

You create your own friendly monster by dragging parts to it that are lying about the place, and said monster can then amble about, dive into the ocean or soar into the air. The world features all kinds of strange creatures to discover and interact with, and the goal-free nature of Monster Mingle makes for a stress-free and highly entertaining time.

Montessorium: Intro to Colors

Price: £4.99/$4.99 ( Intro to Colours on the App Store )

With Intro to Colors, your child learns the basics of colours through a series of matching games. So it starts out matching red, blue and yellow before moving on to secondary levels and gradients. Kids learn to mix and match paint, as well as how to learn to spot and name different colours.

Intro to Colors is a pretty app, which is one reason we like it. But it also makes use of the iPad to deliver something young children would not get from other more traditional means.

Mr Thorne’s

99p/99c for Mr Thorne’s Divide + Conquer or Mr Thorne’s Addition Space Station
£1.99/$1.99 for Mr Thorne’s Times Tables Terra
All have age rating 4+

London teacher Christopher Thorne must be one of the coolest Sirs on the planet (although he does appear to own several pairs of Timmy Mallet-like specs), and he uses the planets as the theme for his three maths apps.

When you score 10 out of 10 on a particular addition, times table or division test you get to keep a space station or planet, depending on the app you’re using. There’s a mystery challenge when you’ve unlocked all the tests, which is an extra incentive – and different to the Squeebles and Math Bingo reward games.

Each game has three levels: Beginner/Newcomer, First Class/Elite and World Class/Legend. The top level is going to test adults, too, so you can join in and have sum fun.

We recommend all the Mr Thorne maths apps, as they’re simple to use, look great, and should really engage kids in these maths basics.

My Very Hungry Caterpillar

Price: £5.99/$5.99 ( My Very Hungry Caterpillar on the App Store )

The Very Hungry Caterpillar has munched its way through countless books, a telly animation, and even the odd activities-based app. But My Very Hungry Caterpillar takes a different approach, transforming the ravenous larva’s surroundings into an interactive game.

The result’s not unlike a no-lose Tamagotchi, with you feeding the caterpillar, playing with it, helping it doze under a leaf, and watching it grow. Eventually, like in the original story, the caterpillar transforms into a beautiful butterfly, at which point a new egg is laid for the adventure to begin anew.

Best kids' apps for iPad & iPhone: Peek-a-Zoo

Price: Free ( Peek-a-Zoo on the App Store )

There’s an elegant simplicity at the heart of Peek-a-Zoo, and it might at first appear a bit too simple. But any time spent with the app and a small child will dismiss any lingering concerns.

You’ll grow to love the gang of sweet cartoon animals, and the simple questions for the child to answer: who is winking? Who is dressed up? And so on. You soon realise that although this app is very straightforward, it’s cunningly teaching your child all kinds of things, from identifying animals to types of clothing and actions.

Sago Mini Monsters

Price: £3.99/$3.99 ( Sago Mini Monsters on the App Store )

One for younger monster-creators, before working their way up to the likes of Monster Mingle or DNA Play, Sago Mini Monsters has you coax a monster from gloopy green slime. You then tap colours and paint your beast before interacting with it.

Most interaction comes in the form of feeding the monster dishes that appear, along with prodding and poking horns, eyes and mouths to change their appearance. A quick brush of the teeth and some decorations and the monster’s time is done. You can then take a photo to share before starting the process again.

Shape Gurus

Price: £2.99/$2.99 ( Shape Gurus on the App Store )

In this interactive story, children are regularly challenged to complete puzzles based around shape-matching. In one case, a little bird flutters towards the outline of a nest, while five brown triangles wait to be dragged into place. Elsewhere, shape and colour matching creates flowers and a watering can.

The voiceover isn’t the best around, but the 27 puzzles and story should keep a child engrossed for a good while, and the journey’s fun enough that it will warrant repeating a number of times.

Teach Your Monster to Read

Price: 99p/99c ( Teach Your Monster to Read on the App Store )
Age rating: 4+ (made for 3-6)

Kids will love creating personalised monsters who help them learn the basics of reading, starting with letters, phonics and sound combinations before moving on to combinations of sounds and words. The app takes children through the various stages of teaching their monster to read using various mini games, and we suspect they’ll be having so much fun they won’t even notice that they’re learning.

Thinkrolls 2

Price: £3.99/$3.99 ( Thinkrolls 2 on the App Store )

Thinkrolls 2 is a slight but engaging platform puzzler for tiny hands to tackle. The aim is to help a little ball traverse various traps, collecting coins on the way to meeting up with a friend.

All of the objects you can manipulate (such as expanding platforms, and barrels to drag into water traps) are suitably chunky, and the game is forgiving when it comes to errors, enabling you to replay sections when a mistake is made, such as when tumbling into a hole.

It’s designed for young children and even toddlers can grasp the basic mechanics – although the very young may need a little help from a parent when it comes to the more complex interactions.

Price: £3.99/$3.99 ( Toca Band on the App Store )

This smart, uncomplicated game is all about creating music from a band of colourful characters. You simply drag them to the stage and they get on with playing their instruments; move them to a spot with a different colour and they’ll change what they’re playing.

Any character plonked in the star position (unsubtly marked with a massive yellow star) gives you the chance to explore more sounds as part of a solo performance – perfect for when you think pianist Dancy Nancy or maracas player Shaky McBones hasn’t had enough of the limelight.

Best iPhone & iPad apps for kids: Ages 6 to 8

Now for some apps that are suitable for a slightly older audience. Here are our recommendations for children aged 6-8.

We’ll repeat ourselves, and point out that age recommendations are approximate. Check out our choices on the App Store before spending any money, to see if the difficulty, complexity and reading level are appropriate for your child.

BBC iPlayer Kids

Price: Free ( BBC iPlayer Kids on the App Store )
Age rating: 4+ (made for 6-8)

The standard version of iPlayer is the best catch-up app around, providing fast access to shows recently broadcast on the BBC. But while it has age-gating, there’s always the risk a youngster will access something you don’t want them to see.

iPlayer Kids gets around this problem by restricting content to shows from CBBC and CBeebies. The interface is also simpler and chunkier, making it suitable for young children. That said, it still retains important features, notably the option to download shows for offline playback.

Best kids' apps for iPad & iPhone: DNA Play

Price: £2.99/$2.99 ( DNA Play on the App Store )

The suggestion that DNA Play can teach 6-to-8-year-olds the basics of genetics is perhaps pushing it a bit. But what this toy does allow for is the creation of almost limitless monsters.

This is achieved by completing ‘DNA puzzles’ (basic shape-matching) and subsequently manipulating the ‘DNA’ relating to a monster’s limbs, torso, face and features (by dragging shapes or just prodding the relevant bits of the monster). There’s also a modicum of interaction, where you can take your monster dancing and skating, and take a photo to share with friends.

Smartly, the app enables you to save a monster before creating another, enabling you to revisit favourites at a later date.

Journeys of Invention

Price: £9.99/$9.99 ( Journeys of Invention on the App Store )

One of the most ambitious digital books in existence, Journeys of Invention aims to chart the course of science and technology. It’s essentially a series of interwoven chapters, detailing how various inventions have impacted what followed.

Many pages enable you to interact with objects, spinning 360-degree ‘photographs’ with a finger, clambering inside the Apollo 10 Command Module, or sending coded messages using an Enigma machine. Packed with insight and spectacular imagery, it’s the best educational tome on the iPad.

Price: Free ( Kodable on the App Store )

One of the most valuable skills for a youngster to learn in the digital economy is coding, which is where Kodable comes in (at a very basic level).

SurfScoreLLC’s premise is very simple: “The fuzz family have crash-landed on Smeeborg and they need your help navigating the Technomazes.” The commands to get the fuzzballs through the mazes are all drag and drop so with a little trial and error we can easily find our way through, earn the rewards and get to grips with the fundamentals of coding.

Read our full Kodable review .

Lego DC Super Heroes Chase

Price: Free ( Lego DC Super Heroes Chase on the App Store )

There’s not much educational content here, but our six-year-old reviewer literally cannot get enough of it. Very useful for rewarding good behaviour.

It’s a simple racer in which you navigate a superhero through the level, avoiding obstacles and collecting coins, then take down the baddy du jour by chucking batarangs or similar. There doesn’t appear to be any significant chance of failure, but kids still appear to get a kick out of succeeding, and from collecting the various characters.

Price: £3.99/$3.99 ( Loopimal on the App Store )

The idea behind Loopimal is to teach children the basics of making music by way of a colourful and simple-to-use loop sequencer.

That might sound complicated, but it really isn’t. You get a bopping animal, and drag coloured shapes to a looping timeline. When the playhead moves over one of the shapes, the animal performs an animation that alters the music in some way.

Once your child has figured out how it all works, you can split the screen into two or four, creating an oddball four-track menagerie-cum-band that will entertain for hours.

£2.99/$2.99 ( Math Bingo on the App Store )

Play the game that’s all about numbers to learn how to add, subtract, multiply and divide. Yes, bingo.

Math Bingo’s questions vary according to your child’s maths abilities and personal preferences. There’s a timer, but to start we’d advise disregarding the clock as this can put on undue pressure.

Math Bingo is colourful and features a collection of weird bug aliens to make things more fun. Kids love to win the Bingo Bugs and they can then use them in a game of Bingo Bug Bungie – a sort of pinball game where you fire your collected bugs to knockout coins to beat your highest score. It’s enough to make even reluctant mathematicians give multiplication another chance.

Metamorphabet

Price: £4.99/$4.99 ( Metamorphabet on the App Store )

This Apple Design Award winner transforms letters into words, often by way of surreal animations. If you fancy seeing a caterpillar gamely driving a car that you can fling about the screen (complete with crashing noises when it lands) or an ostrich tentatively playing with a very solid-looking orange, this is the app to buy.

For kids, it’ll almost certainly captivate more than traditional fare in this space, because of its playful, interactive design. And although the app was created for the 6-to-8 age range, it’s perfectly suitable for younger children (or, for that matter, much older parents).

Monument Valley

£3.99/$3.99 ( Monument Valley on the App Store )

One of the most beautiful and captivating games ever released, Monument Valley will keep children and adults engaged for hours working our how to help the silent princess Ida through mysterious and mind-bending, fantastical architecture, uncovering hidden paths, unfolding Escher-like optical illusions of impossible geometry, and outsmarting the barking Crow People.

Monument Valley is both surreal and serene exploration and will surely go down in game history as one of the unique greats.

And once you’ve finished it, Monument Valley 2 is available too.

Novation Launchpad

Price: Free + IAP ( Novation Launchpad on the App Store )

Although we’d argue GarageBand is an approachable and accessible music-making app, it’s perhaps a bit too much for very young children, if only because of the sheer wealth of options. For an initial foray into making a noise, Novation Launchpad is a better bet.

On selecting a genre, you simply tap pads to trigger loops that repeat until they’re turned off or another in its group is selected. Performances can be recorded and shared, and for older kids intent on making their own loops, there’s a one-off IAP that unlocks import capabilities.

(Just make sure with very young kids that you don’t miss them hitting record and merrily leaving the app open for ages, or you’ll wonder where your device’s free space has all gone!)

Price: Free ( Pure Math on the App Store )

Pure Math has a simpler and cleaner interface than many of the colourful apps in this round-up (hence the ‘pure’ in its name), and a faster difficulty progression, too, so it suits older children best.

You start each level with a score of 1,000, which decreases as time ticks by, and each time you get a question wrong. To begin, the sums are very easy, but with each level, they get harder and harder until even the adults will struggle.

The addition mode is free, but to unlock the subtraction, multiplication and division modes you’ll need to upgrade to the full version for £1.99/$1.99.

Squeebles Times Tables 2

£3.99/$3.99 ( Squeebles on the App Store )

Squeebles Times Tables 2 features an expanded reward system, fun mini game, six tables modes, unlimited players and plenty of stats and reporting for parents and teachers – thankfully without any in-app purchases or adverts. It’s great for testing kids on their times tables and rewarding them for getting them right.

There are other Squeebles apps for addition, division and so on. See the Key Stage Fun Squeebles website for details of all on offer.

Star Walk Kids

Price: £2.99/$2.99 ( Star Walk Kids on the App Store )

There are quite a few apps that transform your iPhone or iPad into a virtual means to explore the heavens, but the interfaces can be too complex for young children. Star Walk Kids strips back the popular Star Walk app, simplifying how everything works, thereby optimising it for younger users.

That doesn’t mean it’s bereft of information, however: you can still explore the solar system’s planets, constellations, the ISS and Hubble; and there are nine animated films that enable you to delve a bit deeper into the facts and figures behind some of these objects.

Toca Blocks

Price: £3.99/$3.99 ( Toca Blocks on the App Store )

Toca Blocks has the appearance of a platform game, but it’s really more about world-building and discovery. You add blocks to a large 2D plane, crafting a chunky world to explore. You can then take control of one of the three characters, each of which has unique abilities that affect how they travel about your tiny world (one can sort of fly, for example, while another smashes through blocks).

Much of the joy in the game comes from experimentation and just seeing what happens, such as when blocks combine to form something new, or a character starts dancing when walking over a glittery floor.

Best kids' apps for iPad & iPhone: Toca Dance

Price: £3.99/$3.99 ( Toca Dance on the App Store )

We’ll fully admit a sense of bafflement on first opening up Toca Dance, with its icon-heavy interface that doesn’t appear overly concerned about telling you how anything works. But then perhaps that’s the point – you play and figure out what everything does.

On doing so, a strange world of choreography opens up, with you helping a trio of dancers fashion a routine to be performed on stage. The show itself can be interacted with, too, by way of sound effects, or lobbing things at the stage (money; confetti; tomatoes). And everything’s recorded, so you can share a video with friends.

Toca Nature

Price: £3.99/$3.99 ( Toca Nature on the App Store )

The developers of Toca Nature aim with their app to capture some of the magic of the great outdoors, and we reckon they’ve succeeded. You get a little square of land, raising mountains or digging rivers with a swipe of a finger. You then tap to plant trees and watch as an ecosystem comes to life.

Brilliantly, you can use a magnifying glass to explore your tiny world, collecting fruit and fish, and using them to feed the animals and birds you find. The blank canvas aspect whenever the app restarts is a pity – it would be nice to have a save slot for ‘your’ world, but otherwise this is one of the finest children’s apps on iOS.

Best iPhone & iPad apps for kids: Ages 9 and over

Finally, here are our recommendations for children aged 9 and over. (Almost all of these focus on the ages 9-11, but we couldn’t resist including Dumb Ways To Die, which is for those aged 12 and over.)

One last time, we will emphasise that age recommendations are approximate. Have a look at screenshots, preview videos and descriptions on the App Store before spending any money, to see if the difficulty, complexity and reading level are appropriate for your youngster.

Comic Life 3

Price: £4.99/$4.99 ( Comic Life 3 on the App Store )

There are plenty of photo apps that enable you to slap on a couple of stickers, or use filters to transform the look of any image. Comic Life, though, is for the more ambitious storyteller. You select a theme (several are included, from elaborate takes on classic comic styles through to bare-bones pages), and import photos into the panels.

You can then add sound effects, speech balloons and other stickers, thereby creating your very own comic book. For those who get really into the apps, there’s a script editor and the means to add multiple pages. Whatever you make can then be exported to a range of formats, including PDF and flat images.

Dumb Ways to Die

Price: Free ( Dumb Ways to Die on the App Store )
Age rating: 12+

Originally conceived as a public safety animation for an Australian metro company, Dumb Ways To Die morphed from a brilliant cartoon and maddeningly catchy tune that kids love to sing into an equally fun game of lethal possibilities. Kids love it and learn how not to get themselves killed at the same time. There are numerous sequels and spinoffs, should the idea appeal.

All together now: “Set fire to your hair, Poke a stick at a grizzly bear. Eat medicine that’s out of date, Use your private parts as piranha bait.”

Earth Primer

Price: £9.99/$9.99 ( Earth Primer on the App Store )
Age rating: 4+ (made for 9-11)

This beautifully designed app is essentially an interactive textbook, explaining how our planet works. As you leaf through the digital pages, you create volcanos and sculpt mountains, along with, of course, reading through the succinct but informative text alongside the simulations. That should be enough to keep most kids engrossed, but Earth Primer also includes a sandbox that enables you to create and shape a landscape with tools that are only unlocked as you progress through the rest of the book.

We’d say experiencing Earth Primer is reward enough, but turning a textbook into a game is a clever move if a reader needs a little extra encouragement.

Best kids' apps for iPad & iPhone: Mathboard

£4.99/$4.99 ( MathBoard on the App Store )

Although more expensive than most maths apps MathBoard can be easily configured for school children of all ages, beginning with simple addition and subtraction problems, multiplication and division, and algebra.

The blackboard theme is cute, although most kids won’t come anywhere a blackboard in school these days.

It is built around multiple choice but encourages working out solutions with a neat scratchboard area where pupils can chalk their sums.

MathBoard’s Problem Solver walks students through the steps required to solve the addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division equations. There are also quick reference tables to hand.

We especially like the configurable nature of MathBoard, where you can determine number ranges, omit negative answers, etc. Activities and quizzes can be timed, either as a countdown timer or elapsed time.

There’s a free version that tackles addition only so you can have a play before forking out for the full version. You don’t need to be a maths boffin to see the value in that!

Best kids' apps for iPad & iPhone: Mathmateer

Price: £1.99/$1.99 ( Mathmateer on the App Store )

Mathmateer is a fun space-themed maths game in which children can build and customise their own rockets using money they’ve earned while soaring through space.

There are 56 different games ranging from simple counting to division and multiplication, so kids of all ages can enjoy playing. Five player profiles can be created, so you can set up one for each child depending on their skill level.

The only downfall (depending on where you live) is that the money system (used to buy extra rocket parts) is in dollars rather than pounds.

Best kids' apps for iPad & iPhone: Namoo

Price: £3.99/$3.99 ( NAMOO on the App Store )

The idea behind NAMOO is to encourage children to explore the life of plants. The main screen features a tree and component parts you can tap and then interact with by way of 3D simulations. Each is twinned with some simple but engaging text that explains what’s going on.

The app is perhaps a little slight – it doesn’t take long to work through – but it looks and sounds gorgeous. Most notably, the artwork has a striking low-poly design that helps it stand out from more traditional textbook fare, helping it feel modern; this might rope in a few younglings who’d otherwise give it a pass.

Operation Math

£2.99/$2.99 (App Store links: iPad version and iPhone version )

The Americanism in the app’s name might be mildly objectionable to British buyers, but this action-packed maths app has a lot to recommend it. The app mixes basic maths skills for children with a time-based spy game.

You’re a secret agent battling the evil Dr Odd, and you get new uniforms and spy gear for each mission completed. This game is all about beating the clock, so try it first in training mode when the player has more time to think about the addition, subtraction, multiplication and division equations.

The spy theme is a great idea for making maths a fun adventure.

Best kids' apps for iPad & iPhone: Redshift

Price: £8.99/$8.99 ( Redshift on the App Store )

And here’s another delightful astronomical option. Redshift uses your current location to show you which stars, constellations and planets you should be able to see. If you enable the Follow Sky option, RedShift will update what you should expect to see as you point your iPad or iPhone at different spots in the sky while you pan around. It’s not a cheap option at £9.99, but a deep and rewarding experience.

Best kids' apps for iPad & iPhone: Solar Walk

Price: £4.99/$4.99 ( Solar Walk on the App Store )

If your kids are feeling bored later tonight, how about a spot of astronomy? The amazing Solar Walk is a great app to get you started. The £4.99/$4.99 app lets you explore the solar system in exquisite detail. You can pinch and zoom around the heavens, examining celestial bodies in an immersive 3D environment from any angle or perspective.

Read our full Solar Walk review .

Xooloo Messenger

Price: Free ( Xooloo Messenger on the App Store )
Age rating: 4+ (designed for 6-13)

Xooloo proved a big hit with a six-year-old who was required to stay home from school during the 2020 virus lockdown, and very much missed his friends. On the whole, however, it’s probably better suited to a slightly older crowd.

It lets you create an avatar and then safely and easily send messages, emoji, pictures and a small number of jokey visual effects (a custard pie, a kiss, confetti and more, gradually unlocking as you make more friends) and keep in touch with friends and family.

To make the app more child-friendly, parents are informed when their kids make new contacts, and can view the contacts list at any time (but not the contents of conversations); it complies fully with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. The fact that the app is free yet contains neither advertising nor in-app purchases is a further advantage.

Warnings about iDevice use, and further reading

That concludes our roundup of the best kids’ apps for iPad and iPhone, but it’s certainly not our last word on the subject.

If you’re considering a tablet for your offspring, you should first ponder the question are iPads safe for young children?

Remember to protect the device with a kid-friendly case and protect it using parental controls . Be aware also that some apps are expensive to buy or contain in-app purchases designed to tempt unwary kids. Others aren’t appropriate for youngsters.

If you’re looking for more app recommendations, you’ll be delighted to discover that we’ve also compiled lists of the best iOS games , the best free iPhone games and the best free iPad games for the older kids (and adults) to enjoy.

Reading Corner

12 Best Educational Apps for 5-Year-Olds

February 19, 2020
7 minute read
109.9K views

Little girl playing with a learning app.

If you liked our picks for best apps for preschoolers and best reading apps for kindergarteners , you’ll love this list for best apps for five-year olds. These games and activities are not only popular with kindergarteners, they also teach a variety of skills that’ll set them up for success at school and in life.

Check out our choices of best educational apps for 5-year-olds below!

1. Endless Alphabet

Best ABCs App

Endless Alphabet is a great educational app for 5-year olds.

Endless Alphabet teaches vocabulary by challenging kids to deconstruct words and put them back together in the right order.

The way it works: your child picks a word from the monster’s mouth, sounds it out phonetically and puts it together. Then they can watch a video to learn the word’s meaning.

This app teaches kids unique, more advanced words that aren’t commonly found in apps for five-year olds, like “gargantuan” and “quarrel.”

The name may be a bit misleading, as it’s more focused on vocabulary than teaching ABCs.

Price: $8.99

Available on iPhone or iPad or Android

2. Toca Life: After School

Best Interest Exploration App

Took After School teaches young kids about extra-curricular activities.

Toca Life: After School lets kids try out a wide variety of after-school and extracurricular activities through virtual play.

Your child can simulate each activity by moving their characters around the screen to different rooms to try activities like dunking a basketball, riding a skateboard and painting a picture.

This open-ended play app offers kids an exciting overview of afterschool activities they can take part in, including sports, dance, music and art. The parent portal offers advice on how parents can join in on the fun, too!

Some kids who struggle with fine motor skills might have difficulty moving the characters around on the screen.

Price: $3.99

3. Flashnote Derby

Best Music App

Flashnote Derby is a fun educational app for 5-year olds.

This interactive flashcards game introduces kids to musical notes. Kids can choose which notes they want to practice and answer questions about each one. A correct answer moves the derby horse forward. Incorrect answers are saved for future study.

This game is super simple and even includes a short instructional video to help young kids quickly grasp the concepts. The app also offers customizations so older kids can learn more complex note sequences.

The graphics are a little old fashioned, so might not be as exciting to some kids.

Price: $4.99

4. Busy Water

Best STEM App

Busy Water is one of the best kid's apps for 5-year olds.

Uh-oh! A mischievous cat has unplugged the fish tank, and someone needs to save the fish!

Kids will have a ton of fun coming to the fish’s rescue, solving simple physics problems to help return it to safety.

The app offers 100 levels of play, with challenges like repairing pipes and using wheels, rotating planks and other simple machines to help get the fish back into the tank.

previous levels to brainstorm new solutions, and even build their own levels. With multiple solutions in this game, there are few wrong answers.

This is a great app for learning cause and effect, as well as cognitive reasoning and fine motor skills.

The first few levels aren’t very difficult, which may bore kids looking for more of a challenge early on.

Available on iPhone or iPad

5. codeSpark Academy

Best Coding App

CodeSpark is a great coding app for young kids.

codeSpark Academy is a coding app that’s both visual and story-driven. Little monsters roam city streets avoiding hazards like police officers, garbage trucks and construction sites. Kids must drag and drop code and commands to help the monsters pass. Kids advance to the next level once they successfully and safely reach their destinations.

With amazing graphics and an engaging story, this app challenges kids to solve puzzles by finding the best possible solution, rather than just one correct one. While kids are encouraged to solve them on their own, codeSpark makes a solution guide available in the parent portal to guide kids when they feel stuck.

While empowering for some kids, the emphasis on solving puzzles for themselves might be frustrating for other kids.

Price: Free

6. DIY.org – Creative Challenges

Best Creativity App

DIY Creative Challenges is a great project app for kindergarteners.

DIY.org is a STEAM-approved app chock-full of instructional videos, featuring topics on simple machines, coding, crafting and building. On the app, kids can learn how to draw, cook, build simple machines, create science experiments and more.

Kids can choose from dozens of projects, ranging from photography to cooking and science experiments. Each project includes an introduction, a how-to video and a challenge.

While strictly kids only, it does offer an internal social media component, encouraging kids to upload photos and videos of their creations and comment on those of others. Not necessarily a “con,” but as with anything online, you’ll want to be mindful of your child’s activity.

Price: Free-$19.99/month

7. Thinkrolls: Kings & Queens

Best Strategic Thinking App

Thinkrolls: Kings and Queens is a great problem-solving app for 5-year olds.

The smart problem-solving fun of Thinkrolls takes on a magical note with Thinkrolls: Kings & Queens. This app teaches kids strategic thinking and science skills through a fantastical fairytale themed narrative.

Your child can solve challenges in eight scenes and hundreds of levels using flying potions, ghosts and mirrors, magical harps—and of course scientific thinking.

This app lets kids try out different strategies and come up with their own solutions to solve problems, without penalizing them for wrong answers.

Some kids might get frustrated over the lack of instruction and hints.

Price: $6.99

8. Gimble the Happy Tree Frog

Best Math App

Gimble the Happy Tree Frog is a fun kids' app.

Gimble the Happy Tree Frog teaches kids math in the form of an interactive digital storybook. The story follows Gimple as he uses math to plan a pizza party, and your child can choose to either have the story read to them or read along on their own.

Through challenges like counting guests and estimating the cost of the pizzas, they’ll be introduced to a wide variety of math concepts.

What makes this app stand out is the use of applied learning through storytelling to help young children “learn by doing” to pick up math fundamentals.

Some parents have reported design flaws (such as inconsistent use of animation) that can take some kids out of the experience.

Price: $2.99

9. Who Am I?

Best Social Awareness App

Who Am I: The Race Awareness Project is an app that helps kids develop an awareness of race, ethnicity and culture. Developed by a Harvard professor and an award-winning producer, it introduces kids to themes like tolerance and diversity ahead of their first day of school.

It’s also a great conversation starter for parents and kids talk about multiculturalism and gender ambiguity.

This app provides a safe place for parents to launch important conversations about diversity that they may not have had to before. Parents can learn how to talk to kids about these subjects while examining their own attitudes. Kids also learn how to ask parents tough questions they might not feel comfortable asking their classmates or teachers.

Some parents may not feel their kids are ready for the subject matter covered in this app.

10. Thinkrolls

Best Physics App

You can’t have a kid’s app list that mentions Thinkrolls without including the original! In this app, kids explore the galaxy with the help of an alien or robot themed Thinkroll character. To get to intergalactic dimensions, kids must solve logic and physics puzzles and maneuver through mazes, wind tunnels and, yup! Even cheese.

Tasks include flipping crates and dragging objects to complete puzzles.

As kids advance to higher levels, they use trial and error to work their way through more and more difficult challenges, keeping them on their toes from start to finish.

This app doesn’t offer hints, so young children may get stuck on more difficult levels.

Best Reading App

uKloo is a reading scavenger hunt game that lets kids choose scenes and follow clues to reach new levels.

Your child can watch animations, read prompts and complete challenges to advance to new scenes.

When they have trouble reading tough passages, they can ask for help and a narrator will read the clues for them.

This app is perfect for beginner readers because it walks kids through each step of the reading process.

None, as far as we can tell!

12. Breath, Think, Do With Sesame

Best App for Emotional Intelligence

Breathe Think Do app by Sesame Street. An educational app that teaches kids to deal with emotions in healthy ways.

This modified meditation app can teach your child to calm down, and cope with and work through feelings and everyday frustrations in a way that’s fun and engaging.

Kids learn the skills and tools for dealing with emotions in any environment or situation.

Meanwhile parents can track their child’s progress and identify which challenges they need the most help with (anxiety, bedtime or taking turns, for example).

It may not appeal to children 6 years and older.

Age Range: 2+

Available on iPhone, iPad and Android

Want to find more educational apps for kids that encourage both learning and fun? We’ve got a list for that too. Discover more of the best educational apps for 5-year-olds, and all ages !

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Baby and kid

Some of the Best Online Learning Games for Kids

By Courtney Schley

To find our favorite learning apps and games for kids, we spent more than 40 hours researching and testing 50-plus apps recommended by educators, experts, and parents. If your family has a tablet and you want it to be more than a game-playing and video-watching device, or if you’re trying to find apps for your smartphone that will do more than keep your kids occupied in a pinch, we have some great suggestions.

As with our guides to STEM and learning toys, we didn’t test scores of apps to try to find the “best” ones. Rather, most of the apps here have been chosen by teachers for their students in classrooms, used by Wirecutter parents and their kids, or recommended by the experts and educators we spoke with. (For details, read more about how we selected the apps in this guide.) The apps we cover in this guide are great learning apps not because they’re designed to make kids smarter, to drill facts, or to replace in-school learning, but because they each offer something fun, unique, and interesting for kids and adults.

The research

Our favorite math apps, our favorite coding apps, our favorite science and exploration apps, our favorite social and emotional learning apps, our favorite ebook app, how we picked and tested.

These math games don’t simply drill facts or make kids memorize but rather use visuals, narratives, and storylines to help kids discover math concepts and build their skills. We like these apps because they offer games and exercises tailored to different ages and skill levels and because they encourage adults and kids to play together.

A family math app: Bedtime Math

$A screenshot of Bedtime Math from our review of the best educational apps for kids, showing the "Math Problem of the Day" screen within the app$

Bedtime Math (iOS and Android)

Bringing math home.

This free app makes math a part of daily family life, like a bedtime story. A peer-reviewed study showed that it not only helps improve kids’ math performance but also makes parents feel more comfortable with math.

Buying Options

How it works: Bedtime Math ( iOS and Android ) seeks to do for math what the bedtime story does for literacy, by turning math into an enjoyable bonding routine between child and caregiver.

The free app offers a daily word problem for children to solve together with an adult during bedtime or anytime. Each exercise centers on a short narrative or interesting fact and poses questions at four difficulty levels, from pre-K through elementary school.

Why it’s great: Bedtime Math is one of the few children’s educational apps that have been evaluated in a peer-reviewed study . This particular study demonstrated that students who used the app significantly boosted their math scores; it also showed that Bedtime Math can help parents mitigate their own math anxiety , a phenomenon that can negatively affect their children’s attitudes toward math and their ability in the subject. Teacher Jennifer Auten told us she liked that the questions were written at a middle-school reading level, meaning an adult must facilitate the discussion but you have a choice of four levels of difficulty based on the child’s age and math level.

Apps for visual math: DragonBox Numbers and DragonBox Big Numbers

A screenshot of DragonBox Big Numbers from our review of the best educational apps and learning games for kids, showing a screen of addition and subtraction equation practice

DragonBox Numbers (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Visual numeracy.

Cute Nooms help kids visualize and conceptualize numbers and arithmetic operations.

DragonBox Big Numbers (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

More-complex arithmetic.

Kids follow characters called Nooms on adventures, solving long addition and subtraction equations in the process.

Ages: 4 to 8 and 6 to 9

How it works: DragonBox Numbers ( iOS , Android , and Amazon ), aimed at kids 4 through 8, introduces number sense, addition, and subtraction through cute characters called Nooms. (The characters are designed to resemble Cuisenaire rods , math learning aids that introduce kids to arithmetic operations in a hands-on way.) Kids feed, slice, and sort the Nooms, developing familiarity with addition, subtraction, fractions, and ranges. In DragonBox Big Numbers ( iOS , Android , and Amazon ), for kids 5 through 9, players follow the Nooms on more complex adventures, solving long addition and subtraction equations in order to gather and trade resources.

Why it’s great: The Nooms function as digital versions of what classroom teachers call math manipulatives , physical learning aids that help young children understand theoretical math concepts in a concrete way. For older kids, the DragonBox series continues on with algebra and Euclidean geometry.

Many great apps teach coding to kids as young as preschool and progressing through upper elementary grades. We’ve highlighted four of these apps because they’re particularly easy to get started with and don’t require reading or, for the child or the parent, a coding background. Regardless of what app they use, parents should think of coding apps as a family activity, said Pat Yongpradit of Code.org . “You will rarely have such a rich media experience as you can when coding with your kid,” he said.

Coding puzzles for beginners: Lightbot and Lightbot Jr

A screenshot of the educational app Lightbot, showing a screen that explains to the user how a particular command within the app works, from our review of the best educational apps and learning games for kids

Lightbot (iOS and Android)

Coding puzzles.

The app’s simple puzzle challenges are easy to jump into for kids and adults with no previous coding experience.

Lightbot Jr (iOS and Android)

Coding puzzles for younger kids.

A slower-paced, easier set of puzzles for kids as young as preschool.

Ages: 9 and up (Lightbot); 4 to 8 (Lightbot Jr)

How it works: In Lightbot ( iOS and Android ), kids solve a series of simple puzzles by lining up commands that make a robot advance over obstacles and light up squares. As they master basic concepts, they add more-complex commands, such as conditionals, loops, and nested statements. Lightbot Jr ( iOS and Android ) follows a similar structure but at a slower pace and with simpler challenges that focus on reinforcing the basics. A minimal amount of reading is required, so pre-readers may need adult help at the beginning.

Why it’s great: Project Lead The Way (PLTW), a nonprofit educational organization that promotes and develops STEM curricula and resources, told us, “The best apps for young students without previous experience are those that teach and help build logic and reasoning skills [and] critical thinking skills, and provide brain teasers.” PLTW’s curriculum writers like the Lightbot and Lightbot Jr apps as ways to get kids as young as 4 started with the basic concepts and logical structures of coding.

A creative coding app: ScratchJr

A screenshot from ScratchJr, showing the creation environment, from our review of the best educational apps for kids

ScratchJr (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Visual programming.

Using graphical coding blocks, ScratchJr lets kids animate characters and create storylines.

Ages: 5 and up

How it works: In ScratchJr ( iOS , Android , Amazon ), kids select characters and backdrop scenes and drag graphical programming blocks, which snap together like puzzle pieces, to make animation sequences and storylines. Although the app has some written cues, the programming blocks largely use symbols (such as arrows and stop signs) to indicate what they do (such as move the character forward or make them stop). As kids become familiar with how to structure the code, they can create multi-scene stories.

Why it’s great: ScratchJr isn’t lesson-based (though you can consult a variety of curricula and tutorials for the app) but rather designed to give kids a sandbox in which to experiment, learn, and create through trial and error (the app offers sample animations as well). Pat Yongpradit of Code.org , which recommends ScratchJr among other coding apps and games, noted one particular benefit: “It’s very free-form; you’re not basically being directed down a particular path.” Younger kids will need an adult or older child to guide them as they get familiar with ScratchJr .

An app for hands-on coding: Osmo Coding Awbie

A child using the Osmo app on an iPad, complete with the base and colorful game tiles, from our review of the best educational apps and learning games for kids

Osmo Coding (iOS)

Tangible coding.

The Osmo system uses physical game pieces in conjunction with the device’s screen, making scripting and coding tangible and accessible for pre-readers.

Ages: 5 to 12

How it works: Osmo Coding Awbie requires a base system—a stand and a mirror that attach to the device’s camera and that are compatible with other Osmo games —for the iPad , iPhone , and Amazon Fire . The system allows players to use physical pieces to interact with the screen-based game. Kids use bricks marked with commands, arrows, numbers, and loops to create scripts that direct a silly character through mazes and challenges, picking up prizes such as strawberries.

Why it’s great: Teacher Jennifer Auten, who uses Osmo Coding Awbie and other Osmo games in her classroom, said the fact that it combined an app with physical pieces made kids more patient and thoughtful as they worked through the challenges: “When something is purely on the screen, kids will sometimes end up just tapping as fast as they can, randomly guessing. With the manipulatives, it slows their thinking down.” Auten also noted that the physical pieces made it easier to play the game with multiple people, fostering discussion, collaboration, and group problem-solving. She also likes that Osmo Coding Awbie is open-ended: “Kids can explore and create their own paths.”

In this category we chose these three apps—focused on anatomy, the natural world, and space—because they offer kids unique, open-ended ways to explore science topics. Each app encourages kids to meander, linger, and dive deeper at their own pace.

An app to see what’s inside: The Human Body

A screenshot from The Human Body, one of our picks for best education app and learning games for kids, showing screens for both the digestive system and the heart

The Human Body (iOS and Android)

Seeing what’s inside.

The Human Body offers a visually and aurally interesting way to wander through the body’s organs, systems, and functions.

How it works: In The Human Body ( iOS and Android ), kids explore anatomy by jumping around to different organs and systems—for example, watching a mouth chew food and swallow drink, sliding into a stomach breaking down food, and following flashing nerve signals as they race up to the brain.

Why it’s great: The Human Body focuses less on teaching kids specific anatomical lessons and more on sparking wonder and fascination toward the body and what it can do. The app’s engaging visuals are neither cartoonish nor graphic, and the thoughtful sound effects are as compelling and instructive as the animations: Gurgles, wooshes, creaks, and spurts give kids a visceral sense of what’s happening inside them. You can toggle on or off the text labels that identify the systems and organs, but no reading is required to get deep into the app, making it equally accessible to pre-readers.

An app for discovering nature: Toca Nature

A screenshot from Toca Nature, showing one of the screens of a landscape that users can alter using the app's tools, from our review of the best educational apps and learning games

Toca Nature (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Natural-world building.

Toca Nature is an open-ended building app—similar to Minecraft—where kids can explore and shape the terrain, collect resources, and observe wildlife.

Ages: 4 and up

How it works: In Toca Nature ( iOS , Android , Amazon ), kids start with a simple plot of land where they can raise or lower mountains, create lakes, clear or plant forests, and make deserts. They can zoom in to different areas of their terrain to collect and distribute resources (like mushrooms, fish, or berries). As they change and shape the environment, different kinds of animals, plants, and fish will appear, multiply, migrate, or disappear.

Why it’s great: Similar to popular narrative-less building games like Minecraft , Toca Nature harnesses the enjoyment kids get from open-ended creating, wandering, and exploring games, with a unique focus on the natural world. Common Sense Media senior editor Christine Elgersma said that an app like Toca Nature doesn’t have explicit learning goals—it’s not trying to teach kids the names of animals or types of terrain, for example—but rather is “an exploratory app with experiences that a kid really couldn’t have off screen.” By creating and manipulating the environment, and then observing how the plant and wildlife change as a result, kids can see how animals, resources, and the environment interact.

An app for exploring space: Professor Astro Cat’s Solar System

A screenshot from Professor Astro Cat's Solar System showing a true-false trivia question about the formation of the moon, from our review of the best educational apps and learning games for kids

Professor Astro Cat’s Solar System (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Cats in space.

Explore the solar system with a jet-propelled cat.

Ages: 8 to 12, or 6 and up with an adult

How it works: Kids explore the app much as they would read a book, delving into facts, illustrations, and animations about planets, moons, stars, and space exploration. At various points, quizzes and other challenges let you earn sardine treats for Professor Astro Cat.

Why it’s great: Jana Grcevich , an astronomer, science educator, and author , told us she enjoyed the Professor Astro Cat app ( iOS , Android , and Amazon ), along with the popular book series it’s based on, with her then 6-year-old niece. The app requires reading, but the entertaining storyline and fascinating facts make it fun for adults along with younger children.

Social and emotional learning , which includes self-awareness, empathy, communication skills, and building relationships, among other capacities, has increasingly been recognized as a critical component of children’s education. These three apps let young kids explore different aspects of self-expression, emotions, and social play.

An app for self-expression: Me: A Kid’s Diary

A screenshot from Me: A Kid's Diary, from our review of the best educational apps and learning games for kids

Me: A Kid's Diary (iOS)

A digital diary.

This app lets kids explore self-expression through drawing, writing, photos, and audio and video.

Ages: 7 and up

How it works: Kids create a digital diary of their lives by answering questions about themselves; making avatars for family members, friends, and other loved ones; and designing their own media. Kids navigate all these entries on their Me Map, a sort of multimedia landscape of their lives.

Why it’s great: Me: A Kid’s Diary helps kids creatively document their feelings, experiences, and loved ones through different media and modes of expression. In some ways, the app offers an experience akin to social media—uploading photos, making videos, writing reflections, and mapping personal connections—but in an entirely closed environment (there’s no actual communication or sharing within the app). This can create a space for kids to start to explore (and for parents to discuss) digital self-expression and sharing.

An app for emotions: Daniel Tiger’s Grr-ific Feelings

A screenshot from Daniel Tiger’s Grr-ific Feelings a social emotional learning app reviewed in our review of the best educational apps and learning games for kids

Daniel Tiger's Grr-ific Feelings (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Exploring emotions.

The beloved PBS character helps young kids identify, act out, and explore their feelings through games, songs and creative activities.

Ages: 2 to 5

How it works: Kids explore the familiar world of the PBS Kids series Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood ( iOS , Android , Amazon ) through simple games, songs, and art activities that focus on identifying and exploring feelings and emotions. It offers different ways for kids to practice, talk about, and experience emotions, such as by drawing a picture, taking a photo of themselves feeling angry or happy, or practicing a calming exercise with Daniel Tiger.

Why it’s great: The app is simple and accessible for very young kids, with frequent verbal cues and reminders to help them through the easily navigable interface. “Even without the Daniel tie-in, it could actually still be a pretty successful app for teaching a lot of social, emotional, and self-care skills,” said Harry Sawyers, Wirecutter senior editor and father of three. “But having the familiar characters and songs really helps jump-start their interest if, for example, they ‘have to go potty—stop, and go right awaaaaay!’”

An app for social play: Toca Tea Party

A screenshot from Toca Tea Party, showing a screen in which the user has set a table with tea party refreshments, from our guide of the best educational apps and learning games for kids

Toca Tea Party (iOS)

Tea for two (or more).

Toca Tea Party presents the elements of a tea party—drinks, desserts, and dishes—for unstructured imaginative play.

Ages: 2 and up

How it works: Toca Tea Party couldn’t be simpler: You set a tea table with plates, cups, drinks, and treats for three guests, and the rest is up to your imagination. There’s no objective beyond pouring drinks, munching treats, and wiping up spills, and the app has a built-in end point: Once you’ve finished the snacks and beverages, the table clears itself and the dishes drop into a sink, ending the party.

Why it’s great: Toca Tea Party isn’t so much a game as a scene for unstructured imaginative and social play for young children. Kids can play alone (perhaps by inviting dolls or stuffed animals as guests) or with one or two others—a unique feature for a tablet game to pull off well. My two daughters, now 4 and 5, haven’t tired of Toca Tea Party after two years, and their play centers on chatting, pretending, and sharing.

An app for reading: Epic! ebook subscription

Epic! e-book subscription

Endless ebooks.

This app allows young readers to choose from up to 35,000 different books for a low monthly cost.

How it works: For $8 a month, kids gain access to some 35,000 children’s books in an intuitively designed app. Epic’s library is updated regularly with new titles, including classics and the site’s original content. Many of the picture books have a “Read to me” function, where a narrator reads the text aloud and the pages turn automatically. The app also suggests books by age and based on what a child has previously read, allowing kids to easily discover new titles at their reading level. Epic! works on iOS, Android and Microsoft tablets and smartphones.

Why it’s great: While some subscription kids’ e-book apps tend to be populated with the kinds of uninteresting titles you’d find in a bookstore bargain bin, Epic! offers an impressive library of children’s books, including many of the beloved classics and award-winning authors you’d find in a well-curated children’s library. (The Wizard of Oz, with the original 1900 illustrations, was one memorable find that gave us many nights of rapt bedtime reading.) The app is simple enough to use that both of my daughters can independently browse books by the cover art and find what interests them—even though they are both pre-readers. Fairy tales abound, but I’ve also found them paging through books about geology, Ramadan, and coding.

Since we began researching learning apps in 2016, we’ve spoken with a range of experts, including a classroom teacher, a child developmental psychologist, a pediatrician, an astronomer, education researchers, app developers, and others.

These have included Kathy Hirsh-Pasek , a professor of psychology at Temple University who has written about and conducted research studies on educational apps for young children; Jennifer Auten , an award-winning teacher in Cupertino, California, who has been using tablet and smartphone apps in her first- and second-grade curricula since the iPad was released in 2010; Christine Elgersma , senior editor, parent education, for Common Sense Media, an organization focused on children’s media; and Pat Yongpradit , chief academic officer at Code.org, a nonprofit that advocates for computer science education. Last, we’ve spoken with parents on our staff for recommendations of apps they and their kids love in categories such as science, music, and coding.

Three children gathered around an iPad, playing one of our picks for best educational apps and learning games for kids

We read articles and reports from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and child developmental psychologists and educational researchers to learn about kids’ media use and about principles for designing learning apps. Finally, we read through reviews and ratings from well-regarded children’s media sites such as Common Sense Media .

Similar to what we found when researching learning toys , we discovered that developers and app stores often label apps as “educational” with little research or evidence, and few experts, to support those claims. In 2016, the AAP released a broad report on children’s use of digital media, calling for more-rigorous evaluation of apps that claim to be educational: “Unfortunately, very few of the commercially available apps found in the educational section of app stores have evidence-based design input with demonstrated learning effectiveness.” Similarly, in a 2015 article , Hirsh-Pasek writes that educational apps “present a significant opportunity for out-of-school, informal learning when designed in educationally appropriate ways” but notes later on that “[o]nly a handful of apps are designed with an eye toward how children actually learn.”

Experts are still studying what makes learning apps successful pedagogical tools, as well as fun and interesting activities for kids. But after speaking with experts, reading research, and trying out apps ourselves, we identified a few features that seem to be common among great learning apps.

Offer unique experiences: Several of the experts we spoke to noted that a good educational app should offer children something they couldn’t simply do, learn, or explore in a classroom or the real world. If the app is “basically a worksheet on screen, [or] an experience that could be replicated off screen, then that’s not a good use of the screen,” Elgersma said. “You want it to be an experience that kids could really only have in that screen world.”
Be open-ended, with limits: Most of the apps in this guide are open-ended in the sense that they encourage kids to independently explore, create, and navigate within the app. But researchers say it’s important to have built-in limits, as well. The AAP has pointed out that digital games have traditionally been designed with rewards and reinforcement designed to keep kids playing as long as possible. The organization recommends that learning apps instead have “automatic ‘stops’ as the default design to encourage children and caregivers to pause the game use and turn to the 3-dimensional world.”
Be engaging but not distracting: Apps have great potential to engage children through interactive features, but some research has shown that too many bells and whistles can distract children or reduce their comprehension. A good learning app uses interactive, animated, and responsive features to engage kids or enhance their comprehension, not simply to entertain. Hirsh-Pasek has written that parents should evaluate an app’s interactive features and ask: “Do the enhancements actually add value and increase engagement, or do they cause distraction?”
Encourage interaction: The AAP and other organizations say that learning apps that encourage real-life interaction among multiple people—adult and child, or child and peers—can be especially strong at facilitating learning. The apps in this guide are fun and interesting for kids and adults, and many foster conversation and play outside of the app itself.

As with our guide to learning toys , we focused primarily on apps aimed at kids 3 to 9 years old, though older kids can enjoy many of our recommendations, as well. We chose this age range because, as Hirsh-Pasek has written , “there are so many apps targeted toward [children in this range] that parents and educators do not know how to navigate the marketplace of possibilities.”

All the apps we recommend in this guide adhere to the FTC’s Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act . Among other things, COPPA requires that websites and apps directed at children under age 13 obtain permission from parents before collecting or sharing personal information from children, or targeting them with behavioral advertising. None of the apps in this guide require children to enter personal information in order to use the app’s functions, and none offer social media sharing or connectivity.

Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, et al., Putting Education in “Educational” Apps: Lessons From the Science of Learning , Psychological Science in the Public Interest , April 20, 2015

Yolanda (Linda) Reid Chassiakos, et al., Children and Adolescents and Digital Media , Pediatrics , October 1, 2016

Jana Grcevich, PhD, astronomer, science educator, author , phone interview , December 1, 2016

Jennifer Auten, first- and second-grade teacher, Cupertino, California , phone interview , November 8, 2016

Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, PhD, professor of psychology, Temple University , phone interview , January 8, 2019

Christine Elgersma, senior editor, parent education, Common Sense Media , phone interview , March 12, 2019

Pat Yongpradit, chief academic officer, Code.org , phone interview , April 18, 2019

Meet your guide

Courtney Schley

Courtney Schley, a senior editor covering sleep and appliances, has been at Wirecutter since 2014. She has held several roles at Wirecutter, including research editor, as well as supervising editor of baby and kid coverage.

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1. SplashLearn

2. endless alphabet, 4. kahoot numbers by dragonbox, 5. pbs kids.

6. Quick Math Jr.

7. Duolingo ABC

8. reading eggs, 9. tynker: coding for kids, 10. todo math.

Technology is a big part of our daily lives, and that includes the lives of our children. Smart devices like iPad apps for kids can be more than just a source of entertainment for them; they can be powerful learning tools, too. When used wisely, technology can help children build important skills.

SplashLearn: Most Comprehensive Learning Program for PreK-5

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SplashLearn inspires lifelong curiosity with its game-based PreK-5 learning program loved by over 40 million children. With over 4,000 fun games and activities, it’s the perfect balance of learning and play for your little one.

But with so many apps out there, how do we pick the best ones for our kids? It’s not just about fun and games; the best apps for kids combine learning with play naturally. We’ve chosen these iPad apps for kids based on several key factors: they must be educational, engaging, right for the child’s age, and, most importantly, safe to use.

The iPad, known for its simplicity and a vast selection of apps, is often the go-to device for parents who want to give their children a technological edge. It’s easy for little fingers to navigate and can open up a world of learning and fun. So, let’s dive into the digital playground and discover the best iPad apps perfect for kids.

Ready to give your child a head start with technology?

Here are our top picks of iPad apps For Kids:

SplashLearn is an immersive educational platform that makes math and reading an exciting journey for kids. This app offers a personalized learning experience , adapting to each child’s pace and style. With some of the best educational games for iPad and rewards for each milestone, SplashLearn stands out as a fun app for iPad that supports foundational skills in a vibrant, engaging environment.

Cost: Free trial available; subscription plans vary

Subjects Covered: Math, ELA

Features: Adaptive learning, interactive games, progress tracking

Pros: Personalized learning paths , engaging content that keeps children motivated, free for teachers

Cons: Full access requires a subscription

Why It’s Recommended: SplashLearn is recommended for its adaptive learning platform that personalizes educational content to meet the unique needs of each child. It’s particularly valuable for its engaging approach to math and reading, foundational academic skills . The app’s interactive games and rewards system motivate children to learn and achieve their goals. Additionally, the progress dashboard for parents is a standout feature, allowing for tracking and supporting a child’s learning journey.

Dive into the world of fun learning with SplashLearn. Get started now and join millions of parents who trust SplashLearn for their children’s educational journey!

Endless Alphabet is one of the best kid apps for iPad when it comes to mastering the ABCs . This app turns learning into a joyful experience, with cute monsters teaching kids new words and their meanings through interactive puzzles and animations. It’s a fun app for iPad that makes vocabulary building a delightful and engaging task.

Cost: One-time purchase

Subjects Covered: Language, Vocabulary

Features: Interactive puzzles, adorable animations, no high scores or failures

Pros: Encourages learning at one’s own pace, extensive vocabulary list

Cons: Might be a bit pricey, limited appeal for older kids Why It’s Recommended:

Endless Alphabet is recommended for its innovative approach to literacy. It goes beyond simple ABCs, introducing children to words and their meanings through interactive puzzles that keep them engaged. The app’s use of lovable characters and playful animations helps to hold a child’s attention, making learning new words fun.

Epic! is a vast digital library for kids, offering access to thousands of books ranging from picture books to educational reads. It’s a fantastic resource for encouraging a love of reading and is often called the “Netflix for kids’ books.” With a constantly updated catalog, it’s an endless adventure in reading.

Cost: Subscription-based

Subjects Covered: Reading, Literature

Features: Digital library with a variety of books, personalized recommendations

Pros: Unlimited access to books, tracks reading progress

Cons: Requires a subscription, less interactive than other apps Why It’s Recommended:

Epic! is recommended because it’s like having an entire library at your fingertips. With thousands of books available, it caters to various interests and reading levels . Its personalized recommendations help children find books that match their interests and reading ability, ensuring that they are always engaged and challenged.

The Kahoot! Numbers by DragonBox is a collection of fun and educational math games that cover a wide range of skills. These games are designed to turn complex math concepts into engaging challenges that kids will love to solve. Whether it’s basic algebra or geometry , DragonBox turns math into an adventure.

Cost: Each game is a one-time purchase

Subjects Covered: Math, Algebra, Geometry

Features: Step-by-step learning, immediate feedback

Pros: Makes complex math concepts accessible, no ads or in-app purchases

Cons: Each game is sold separately, which can be costly Why It’s Recommended: The DragonBox series is recommended for its unique approach to math learning. By turning mathematical concepts into games, it helps demystify subjects that many children find challenging. Its intuitive design teaches problem-solving and critical thinking skills in a way that feels like play, which is essential for effective learning.

PBS Kids is a must-have iPad app for young learners eager to explore science, math and social skills through play. This app is a treasure trove of games featuring favorite PBS Kids characters, all designed to educate and entertain. From solving puzzles to going on science adventures, children can enjoy various activities that make learning fun.

Cost: Free (with in-app purchases)

Subjects Covered: Science, Math, Social Skills

Features: Games with popular PBS characters, safe and kid-friendly content

Pros: Wide variety of educational games, trusted PBS content, regularly updated

Cons: In-app purchases can add up, may require parental guidance for younger children Why It’s Recommended:

PBS Kids Games is recommended for its comprehensive approach to learning through play . The app’s games are not only fun but also educational, covering key subjects like science and math. The app encourages exploration and learning in a safe, ad-free environment. It is an excellent choice for parents who want to ensure their children are exposed to quality educational material .

6. Quick Math Jr .

$App store page of Quick Math Jr$

Quick Math Jr. is one of the must-have iPad apps for young minds eager to learn math. It presents a variety of number games that are perfect for developing early arithmetic skills in a fun and engaging way.

Subjects Covered: Math

Features: Handwriting recognition, adaptive difficulty

Pros: Encourages handwriting practice , intuitive for young children

Cons: Limited free content before requiring in-app purchases

Why It’s Recommended: Quick Math Jr. is ideal for foundational math learning, with its intuitive interface and engaging characters that make learning numbers and basic math concepts a playful experience for young children.

Duolingo ABC stands out among the best kids apps for iPad, designed to teach early literacy skills. With its interactive and user-friendly interface, it makes learning to read a joy for young children.

Subjects Covered: Reading, Writing

Features: Phonics, interactive storytelling

Pros: No ads or in-app purchases, highly interactive

Cons: Mainly for beginners, too simple for advanced readers

Why It’s Recommended: Duolingo ABC is recommended for its simple, interactive approach to reading, using Duolingo’s language expertise to help kids take their first steps in literacy with confidence.

Reading Eggs is a comprehensive ipad application for kids that supports reading skills through games, songs, and golden eggs rewards. It’s a resourceful tool that makes learning to read an exciting adventure.

Subjects Covered: Reading

Features: Over 2,500 e-books, progress tracking

Pros: Wide age range, extensive content

Cons: Requires a subscription after the free trial

Why It’s Recommended: Reading Eggs is a comprehensive reading program that combines scientific research with fun games, making it a recommended app for children to develop their reading skills systematically.

Tynker is a creative platform that introduces children to the world of coding. It’s one of the best kids apps for iPad for learning programming through games and puzzles, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Subjects Covered: Coding, Computer Science

Features: Block-based coding, game design

Pros: Encourages STEM learning , extensive coding curriculum

Cons: Full experience requires a subscription

Why It’s Recommended: Tynker is recommended for its engaging platform that teaches coding through storytelling and game creation, equipping kids with essential programming skills in a fun and interactive way.

$App store page of Todo Math$

Todo Math is a fun app that allows kids to practice math at their own pace with a variety of games and activities tailored to different skill levels, ensuring a personalized learning experience.

Features: Daily challenges, accessibility options

Pros: Designed for a range of abilities, including children with special needs

Cons: Some content locked behind a subscription

Why It’s Recommended: Todo Math’s tailored learning approach is why it’s recommended, offering a suite of games that adapt to a child’s learning level, making math practice enjoyable and effective .

How to Choose The Right iPad Apps for Kids

When choosing the best iPad apps for kids, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure they are beneficial and appropriate. Here are five essential criteria to keep in mind:

Educational Value: The app should have clear learning benefits, whether teaching math, reading, or critical thinking skills. Look for apps that align with educational standards and promote cognitive development.
Engagement: An app must be engaging to keep a child’s attention. It should have interactive features, colorful graphics, and entertaining content that make learning enjoyable and not a chore.
Age Appropriateness: The app’s content should suit the child’s age group. This includes the complexity of the tasks, the language used, and the themes presented within the app.
Safety and Privacy: Safety is paramount. The app should have no ads or in-app purchases without parental approval and protect the child’s privacy by not collecting personal information.
Positive Reviews and Awards: Look for apps that have received positive feedback from other parents, educators, and reputable organizations. Awards or recognition from educational institutions can also be a good indicator of quality.

By keeping these criteria in mind, parents and educators can select iPad applications for kids that are fun, enriching, and appropriate for their developmental stage.

Transform screen time into learning time with SplashLearn. Create your free account today and take the first step towards a joyful educational experience for your child!

Finding the right iPad apps for kids can make a world of difference in their learning and play. The apps we’ve discussed today are not just fun apps for iPad; they’re gateways to new worlds of discovery. They combine education with entertainment, ensuring that screen time is well spent. Remember to look for apps that are educational, engaging, age-appropriate, safe, and highly recommended by other users. With these tools, your children can enjoy a balanced and enriching experience that complements their growth and curiosity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much screen time should i allow my child to use these apps.

It’s recommended to limit screen time to one hour per day for children aged 2 to 5, and to ensure a balance with other activities for older children. Always prioritize active play and learning.

Are these apps safe from inappropriate content?

Yes, the apps listed are designed specifically for children, with safety in mind. They include features like ad-free environments and parental controls to keep the experience appropriate and secure.

Can these apps replace traditional learning methods?

While these apps are excellent supplements to traditional learning, they should not replace hands-on experiences, teacher-led instruction, or the rich learning that occurs in natural environments.

What are some of the best iPad apps for 5 year olds?

Some of the must-have iPad apps for 5 years include SplashLearn, Endless Alphabets and Duolingo.

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12 Best Free iPad Games For 5 Year Olds

In the current information age, it is almost impossible to stop kids from accessing a phone, tablet, or computer. The best news is that you can decide what they can see and cannot, as IOS games have a minimum age rating.

For kids, the iPad is the ultimate entertainment system with numerous exciting games . These games range from critical thinking and creative problem-solving to having fun and passing the time.

So, if you have an iPad and are looking for ways to keep your kids entertained as they learn, you have come to the right place.

In this article, I feature some of the top free iPad games for 5-year-olds that will keep them busy while having fun.

Best Free iPad Games For 5-Year-Olds

1. candy crush saga.

Candy Crush Saga is a legendary puzzle game that mixes the typical connect-the-matching-symbol gameplay with your kid’s favorite pastime, eating candy. The game is loved by many and is one of the most popular mobile games.

This game can be exciting to 5-year olds, as by simply tapping on the screen, the game results in a lot of graphical fun.

The puzzles are also a great way to enjoy Candy Crush Saga. To solve the puzzles , children need to think quickly and make smart moves to be rewarded with tasty candy combos and delicious rainbow-colored cascades.

The game has features that will leave your kid craving more and keeps getting exciting, with more levels and puzzles added every two weeks. The sweet match three puzzle game has over a trillion plays; your kid can play it alone or with friends.

Candy Crush Saga features various game modes, including Target Score, Collect the Ingredients, and Clear the Jelly. The game levels range from easy to challenging and are accessible on the go offline and online.

It is also easy to sync Candy Crush Saga between devices to unlock the full game features when connected to the internet.

Candy Crush Saga is free to play, but offers in-app purchases for extra lives, boosters, and other in-game items.

2. Fruit Ninja 2

Fruit Ninja 2 is an old-school slicing and dicing fun game with a simple concept but enough challenge to keep kids hooked. The goal of this game is to slice as many fruits as you can but not slice through a bomb, as it will blow your virtual finger off.

The game has fantastic sound effects and graphics and many game modes to give you more play options. The fun of this game is also in the collecting and upgrading of blades and powerups with action-packed fun.

Fruit Ninja 2 has undergone a series of upgrades to meet a modern gamer’s needs. It is different from its previous version as it is more fun because now kids can play with each other and compare scores. Fruit Ninja 2 can be enjoyed by kids aged five and up.

Fruit Ninja 2 is free to play, with in-app purchases available.

Also Read : Best Browser Games To Play When Bored

3. Kidoku- Kids Sudoku Puzzle

Kidoku makes the Sudoku game fun and interesting for kids. This game features some cute animals and beginner levels to help kids pick up the concept and enjoy the game easily. It is an excellent early learning game suitable for children’s development.

The game offers an experience that keeps kids entertained while boosting their cognitive skills, hand-eye coordination, and memory. Sudoku’s blocks solver matching game ensures that your kid learns the basics of match puzzles and even becomes sharp.

The traditional number puzzle keeps kids immersed in the animal puzzle experience that is equally challenging and fun.

The game has over 60 levels, and the faster your kid solves the Sudoku joy levels, the better they’ll perform at tile matching. Kidoku is ideal for children aged three and above.

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4. Readlax: Brain Games

Readlax is an all-in-one productivity platform that can help your kid develop problem-solving and thinking skills. This game comprises over 2,500 riddles, logic tasks, brainteasers, puzzles, math problems , and memory training games.

The game’s main features include brain training, speed reading, touch typing, smart notes, and the reader view. Brain training is a program of activities to help your kid maintain or improve their cognitive abilities, including working memory and executive function.

Speed reading involves making meaning out of print by identifying and understanding a set of words at once instead of individual comments. Touch typing trains your kid to practice typing using fingers without looking at the keys.

Smart note-taking is an effective note-taking tool that allows you to organize and store knowledge. Readlax’s reader view is a browser extension that removes distractions and ads to give your kid a seamless experience through texts and images only.

The Readlax app is appropriate for kids aged five and above.

5. BrainCraft

BrainCraft is a unique app that trains kids to take on challenges. It teaches kids how to employ different types of thinking.

It is comprised of over 100 math, cognitive skills, and language exercises compiled by international researchers who specialize in brain training.

BrainCraft features well-designed games with colorful graphics and can enrich your child’s educational activities at school.

The different challenges on BrainCraft are linked by a theme of how to survive on a desert island, and your kid can see how they have improved since they started using the app and compare themselves to their friends or siblings.

Its puzzles are based on numbers, mental flexibility, and logic.

The app records your kid’s performance with level details, including their strengths and weaknesses. It rates them against other players whom they nominate and provides a holistic challenge to encourage children to think about problems and solve them.

BrainCraft reads instructions aloud, so your child’s limited literacy skills won’t stop them from enjoying the game.

The games feature an intuitive interaction method; if you wish to check your child’s progress, you must log in using a different account. BrainCraft is ideal for kids aged five and up.

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6. Kokoro Kids

Kokoro Kids is an excellent educational free iPad game that allows kids between the ages of two and seven to learn while having fun with multiple games, stories, activities, and songs.

These games are grouped by skill, including positions, colors, addition, subtraction, and counting up to five.

Experts created Kokoro in neuropsychology and early childhood to help children with cognitive and emotional development through game-based learning . The skills and knowledge your child develops from this app can also apply to other aspects of their lives.

Kokoro’s one hundred games and activities provide a personalized experience for your child’s level. Kokoro can help your young one learn how to play instruments, solve problems, count, and express their creativity.

Kokoro Kids features tasks and concepts that complement preschool and school activities. Additionally, Kokoro Kids is made of resources for the early stimulation and development of multiple intelligences and basic cognitive skills.

The tool also helps kids to manage primary emotions such as anger, frustration, generosity, or empathy.

The Kokoro learning method also incorporates artificial intelligence to allocate appropriate content at the right time, increase difficulty in areas where the child stands out, and reinforce the less developed areas.

The tool adheres to security protocols that guarantee safety for your kid and filters out inappropriate content and ads.

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7. Dr. Panda Town Tales – iPad Game For 5 Year Olds and 6-Year-Olds

Dr. Panda is an exciting role-playing game that sets your kid on a wondrous adventure in Dr. Panda Town. The game features 40 action-packed locations and combines endless fun with learning most creatively.

The game allows your child to explore Panda Town with 35 fun and diverse characters alongside bright and colorful graphics.

You can personalize the gameplay for your kid by selecting a location that resembles a real-life scenario to let them experience things in a world without consequences.

The free game also allows you to create characters in the character creator feature. Your kid can choose from multiple hairstyles available, noses, eyes, and more. You can also role-play and develop stories to play out.

Dr. Panda records screen activities in the video maker mode, but don’t worry, as the recordings are only saved locally on your device and never shared by the app.

The tool is ideal for children aged five and up who’d love to explore the world using different characters combined with fun adventures along the way.

This game has a free version and it offers in-app purchases for additional content and features.

8. Preschool & Kindergarten Games

Preschool & Kindergarten Games are free tools that allow kids to experience fun with 30 interactive educational games . This tool has curated great games and lessons used by millions of parents across the world to entertain and educate kids.

The app also helps children to become enthusiastic about crucial school subjects such as spelling and reading. Preschool & Kindergarten Games app features colorful graphics, fun sound effects, and helpful voice narrating.

The Preschool & Kindergarten Games tool is designed based on real kindergarten and preschool curriculums and follows the common core standards.

The reading lessons include learning letters using helpful pictures and voices, letter tracing, the alphabet, lower and upper cases, and phonics.

Math games include counting, addition, number tracing, missing numbers, counting down, and ordinal number, among others.

The app also has advanced features like lesson builders, multiple-user support, detailed progress reports, and avatars.

9. Way of the Turtle

Way of the Turtle is a charming adventure app that takes your kid on a journey to reunite two turtles stranded on a tropical island in a nowhere land.

The island does not look so innocent at first glance, as it is made of elements that transform into difficult obstacles and vicious monsters.

The best thing is that not everything will work against your kid who’s interested in having a good time on the app. Your child can be friends with the natives inhabiting the island to help them in their quest to get back home.

Way of the Turtle also immerses your young one in a breathtaking 3D world with modern rendering technology and cinematic cameras. It keeps them in control with its easy and smooth controls that enable simple touch gestures with no on-screen buttons to control your character.

The game is appropriate for kids aged four and above and is appropriately paced with fun sliding down parts.

10. Dodo Peak

Another exciting free iPad app game for 5-year-olds is Dodo Peak. Dodo Peak gets your kid to play as a dodo bird trying to save its eggs and find and rescue its lost babies from multiple dangerous peaks.

This game is a throwback to the classic arcade platforms but with a modern twist. The goal of the game is to maneuver back home while avoiding enemies and obstacles at all costs.

The player should collect coins, grab powerups for extra speed and super strength, dodge sneaky snakes, avoid monkeys, and reach for the best time across a breathtaking variety of crafted islands.

Your kid can also unlock new and faster dodos to tackle more challenging levels. The game has simple touch controls that five-year-olds can quickly learn and is an excellent tool for short play sessions on transit or long playtimes on the couch.

Dodo is exciting but not an easy endeavor. Your child is expected to overcome a series of obstacles that are after the eggs, and if they pass an obstacle, they earn coins.

Overall the game gives kids a mind-blowing interface, great graphics, simple controls, and various environments, including islands, hills, volcanoes, and leaderboards.

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11. Sago Mini World: Kids Games

Sago Mini World: Kids Games - Perfect iPad app game for younger children

Sago Mini World is a perfect iPad app for 5-year-olds who love to engage with thoughtfully-designed games that spark curiosity. This game is made of over 40 award-winning games that immerse your kid into hours of creative and interactive play.

The game allows your child to explore outer space to build a robot, meet dinosaur friends, become a superhero, or serve customers at a diner, among others. Additionally, there are a lot of Sago mini friends that your child can play with together with their custom characters.

Sago gives children the freedom to explore and play in their own ways. They can only be limited by their imagination. They can delight in activities that encourage empathy, self-confidence, and self-expression, which are crucial for your child’s developing mind.

Sago Mini World promises safe and positive screen time for your child, as it is Kid-Safe certified and has no ads. It is designed for intuitive gameplay and is more fun if you join your little one from time to time.

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12. LEGO DUPLO WORLD – Free iPad Game for 4 Year Olds & 5 Year Olds

Last on our list of the best free iPad games for 5-year-olds is LEGO DUPLO WORLD. The game is well aligned to meet the learning needs of 2- to 5-year-olds.

The game is packed with open-ended experiences featuring buildings, animals, trains, and exciting vehicles to inspire your child’s creativity and imagination through learning .

Each activity targets key learning elements for toddlers and preschoolers. It also has a parent center where you can read through the learning benefits of each game activity.

Your child can explore and discover how everything works independently and get a chance to build structures using the 3D bricks to stimulate their creativity.

The game supports multi-touch so that you can play together with your kid. The app is free to download and play but also has optional paid content.

Best Free iPad Games For 5 Year Olds – Final Words

Choosing the right tool ensures that your child is occupied while learning basic skills, so go ahead and pick kid-friendly games based on their interests.

However, make sure that you also limit their screen time and encourage them to play outdoors to enhance their overall well-being

I do not advocate for these games to completely replace their physical toys and activities, but there’s no doubt that the games will improve your kid’s essential, skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive abilities.

Tom loves to write on technology, e-commerce & internet marketing. I started my first e-commerce company in college, designing and selling t-shirts for my campus bar crawl using print-on-demand. Having successfully established multiple 6 & 7-figure e-commerce businesses (in women’s fashion and hiking gear), I think I can share a tip or 2 to help you succeed.

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Getting smart collective, impact update, 30 of the best educational ipad games: kid’s edition.

“The 30 Best Educational Games for the iPad: Kid’s Edition” first appeared on OnlineCourses.com. Parents and teachers who trust little Muffy and Junior with their shiny iPads don’t have to worry about how access to shoot-‘em-up video games will rot their precious little gifted and talented program minds. Instead, they can download some of the following alternatives to help them build up their brilliant brains that will totally go on to win Nobel Prizes someday.

Math Ninja :

Stack the countries :, highlights hidden pictures :, the oregon trail :, lego super heroes movie maker :, math and letters air control :, brainpop featured movie :, early jamestown :, garageband :, thinkertoy :, kapu toys :, mathboard :, ultimate word search free (wordsearch) :, rocket math :, civilization revolution :, i spy riddle race :, coin catcher :, let’s create pottery :, iwritewords :, mathemagics – mental math tricks :, story wheel :, what’s the difference :, time, money & fractions on-track :, dr. frankenstein’s body lab :, soundtouch :, monster physics :.

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37 comments, scott strong.

Hello, I recently released an iPad game to the App Store that I think should be considered for your top-30 list. It's a simple memory matching game that allows kids to match concepts in order to learn about the particular topic. For example, in the Numbers topic, the user can select to match numbers to Roman numerals, or to the spelling of the number in English, French or Spanish. There are currently topics for the following: Animals, Colors, Countries, Shapes, Numbers, and Time. The name of the game is "Match To Learn", and it can be found at this URL: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/match-to-learn/id583563447?ls=1&mt=8 . Or, to learn more about the game visit my website at http://www.pureforte.com/match-to-learn. Thank you for your consideration, and please contact me if you have any questions. regards, - Scott

I recently released an iPad game to the App Store that I think should be considered for your top-30 list. It is Essay Starter. I want introduce you with Essay Starter. You can find it on next link. https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/essay-starter/id593023126?mt=8 I want to invite you to feel free to try this app and write review if you are interested about it. What is Essay Starter? The new iPad app "Essay Starter" is here...Make writing easy. The new iPad app "Essay Starter" is perfect for students, writers, and professionals, anyone whose writing involves a research component. Use the split screen feature to view your research on one side, and take notes on the other. Select text from research material and insert it directly into your notes, along with an automatically generated footnote. Description Be inspired! Writing is easy when you have easy access and control of your sources. Automatic footnotes let you stop worrying about references and just write. Split screen mode lets you open and read multiple PDF files, and take notes at the same time. Get your writing started quickly: * Upload your research as PDF files * Automatic reference information for footnotes * Edit optional additional bibliographical information for footnotes * Read and highlight PDF files on the full screen or split screen * Easily navigate within PDF files with tile view * Create a new worksheet to make notes and start your essay * Use split screen to view the worksheet and PDFs at the same time * Select PDF text and send it to the worksheet, with an automatic footnote reference * Easy file management system * Left or right handed layout

Chuck The Turtle

Hello everyone! You should try Chuck The Turtle! It is a fun and educational game for kids. They get to paint, jump, do puzzles, cross some dangerous roads, jump, climb and much more! Chuck the Turtle is easy to play, rewarding and mind-challenging!! Check it out and also watch the video: http://itunes.com/apps/chucktheturtle http://youtu.be/ObGMIc9HgqI

Liz Griffiths

There are some things the iPad can't replace: http://buildingblocksmedia.blogspot.com/2013/03/there-are-some-things-ipad-just-cant.html

"Hello, Another great new app for kids is Jazzy World Tour. They have a free version. My kids have learned so much from it. https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/jazzy-world-tour-free-musical/id574909527?mt=8"

Love Space Exploration? This is the only ABC learning app that focus on Space. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kBGWoEaAuw

Ashley Wells

Nice to hear this thanks for sharing. I want this for my son.

Sheer portability and convenience of app, makes learning activity a complete joyride for both parents and kids.

Maryna Petrenko

Hi, Our new educational app "City Letters" is now available on App Store. City Letters teaches children to identify alphabet letters, recognize their sounds, trace them, and solve exciting puzzles and mini games: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/frugoton-city-letters-education/id730991933?ls=1&mt=8 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M66cp7ni958

Paweł Kitajewski

I would like to recommend you Joypa Colors. It is interactive coloring game for kids 3 years+ While making progress object on your screen are coming to life. Trees are bending, sun starts to move on the sky, animals are starting to move it's simple but brilliant :) It can be played on your tablet or smartphone. Game can be downloaded for free on Appstore: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/joypa-colors-free-interactive/id789651365?mt=8 And Google play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dm.joypacolorsfree

Superb list...Math ninja is best math game for kids ever. Math is always boring subject for kids and by this game kids will learn math vey easily.

igeniuspets

iGeniusPets is a fun pet game with 9 mini educational games. Available on both ios and android. https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/igeniuspets-lite/id817614884?ls=1&mt=8

Our son loves playing this animal app called MiniPlaces on our iPad http://goo.gl/iXY6so. Games like these helped to stimulate his interests in animals and going to the zoo as he got older.

Great blog! I have published a new educational slide puzzel game for iPad called Scramble Fest that is available for free on the App Store. It features a total of 300 puzzels ranging in subjects from animals to people and architecture. Presented in an original manner this game includes a variety of stage designs that challenges the player to get ahead in the game. Why don't you take a look at the iTunes page? https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scramble-fest-free/id838310529?ls=1&mt=8 There's also a paid version that costs $0.99 and doesn't include ads. To see more of the game be sure to check out the Facebook page which features a number of videos here: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Scramble-Fest/515100568601397?ref=ts&fref=ts And the official website: http://www.royniginal.nl/ScrambleFest/index.html Enjoy! And feel free to contact me at any time. Best regards, Roy

Hello, Check this Fun & Educational Math App for kids:"Flappy Owlet - The Adventures of a Baby Bird". It’s a free game that test your reflexes and first grade math skills. App store url: goo.gl/w2eCWV

Excellent list, I would also add Bubble Shooter puzzle game - its educational value lies in rather something different than schools subjects.. This game can improve responses and fast thinking, absolutely love it!

Parks j Daniel

Such a fantastic educational game for kids listed here in this post. Educational game are best way for teach to child some educational activities. I like all the games appears here.

How about an educational game that is full of interactivity, animations, fun, vocal and sounds for many repeat plays? Jungle game provides endless entertainment and learning to your kids! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZuF_AtQV_E&feature=youtu.be https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/jungle-educational-game/id929575979

Rodel Ednalan

More apps availlable at Educational Fun For Kids

learning system

Sheer portability and accessibility of app, makes acquirement action a complete joyride for both parents and kids.

Thanks. Play new filled puzzle game and help Astropup save Earth. The simple tap mechanic have some complex challenges. Discover black holes, radiation, space anomalies & the dastardly alien fleet in Astropup. Free to Download for ‪#‎iPhone‬, ‪#‎iPad‬ and ‪#‎iPod‬ touch. Download Link: http://bit.ly/astropup-ios

I try to review mobile games best for kids at my site here: mobileappsforkids.wordpress.com

Hey everyone! I'm super excited to share the project I've been working on for such a long time... Dino Kids Free is already for Apple : https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dino-kids-free/id958288574?l=fr&ls=1&mt=8 and Android : https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...e.DinoKidsFree See example in Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0asTg2Acw4 Thinks for your support.

parks daniel

awesome list..loved all these games..after i read these facts : http://goo.gl/KnRXAf

I think you could add this game to the list also. It is loved by kids of all ages from all over the world and it has over 200.000 downloads worldwide. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=air.com.dlgames.GuessThatAnimal

Great way to learn through play is to pick boardcraft game, which is a set of educational games adapted for children of all ages, supporting development, creativity, imagination.your child create new game by drawing and then play in tablet. very simple.

Hey! We are working on a puzzle game with deep narrative element. Both the story and the puzzles are designed to require deep concentration and the puzzles teach visual pattern recognition skills. It is designed both for adults and children. We will be searching beta testers in future and would love feedback from both adults and children. If you think this interesting please follow us: www.galacticechoes.com Best regards, Jaakko

"NUMBERS SWAPPER" is a smart educational game for ages 8 and up. it is published on iPhone but could play on other Apple devices. the player organizes and manipulates numbers that are close or look alike. it teaches digits/place value in a fun way. Also "MONEY MATTERS" can be played on the iPhone/Apple devices. It teaches budgeting, quick adding, decision making and avoiding bankruptcy. it has nice graphics and different levels of difficulties.

Taylor Donaway

I really think my new baby sister will like the game hangman and Braimpop.Maybe even Mathninja and Madlibs.

Patricia C.

Hi, I don't like to post these kind of comments but I would like to recommend this puzzle.. My son love it. I think is because of the colors and sounds. Sadly is only for android. But I'm using my husband's tablet. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.queleas.wheelspuzzlesforkids

Thank you for the list! Here is one more for children who are learning how to read: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/hales-tale-learn-to-read/id1184892804

Hello everyone! I would add to this list the educational website Koikiwi http://koikiwi.com/ where kids could learn about ecological issues while they playing games. It's set of games: action games, puzzle games, trivia and other fun games - which all are focused on ecology, the environment and the future of our planet.

Shweta Kale

Great! Thanks for sharing your information. They are really useful games. I have just come across an article, which says they are brain child award winner. You can give it a read to the link. https://logicroots.com/MathBlog/tillywig-brain-child-award-winner-2019/

The theme of kids' computer games is the same - an anonymous person brutally fights an anonymous enemy. This type of kids' computer game infuses violent behavior into kids. Playing computer games has become the biggest addiction among kids. They even save money to buy the latest game titles.

Please consider Rocket Mouse by Sofielafée in your selection. Rocket Mouse is an original English French learning game for preschoolers, made by parents and available on iPad, iPhone and Android

Diya Kapoor

Thanks for sharing this useful list. During lockdown, I am trying to engage my son in taking some brain games or learning quizzes. One of his favorite learning app these days is : The Quizopedia. You can also install for your kid for free GK and many more quizzes and practice tests. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/thequizopedia/id1480799124

reetamorson

Hi, You have build such an amazing site. thanks for sharing this amazing information with us. It is really going to be very helpful for kids. You may also visit: https://www.thelearningapps.com/

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Best iPad Games for Kids of All Ages

Check out CNET's list of age-appropriate iPad games for kids.

She received the Renau Writing Scholarship in 2016 from the University of Louisville's communication department.

Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp is a dialed-down version of New Horizons, but still fun to play.

If you're looking for kid-friendly games, you might not know where to start. And how can you be sure what's safe and age-appropriate?

We've got you covered with a list of the 30 best iPad games for kids, with Apple's age rating for each (scroll further down for games for older kids, even though a lot of the games for ages 4 and up would be fun for kids of all ages). Some, but not all, of these iPad games are available as part of Apple's $5 a month mobile gaming subscription service, Apple Arcade . Others are available to download free or for a price in the App Store.

Ages 4 and up

Monument Valley

In Monument Valley, you must help Princess Ida on a mission through Monument Valley -- a world of mazes, crow people and strange, impossible structures. The game uses the way you interact with the environment to play with perspective and reveal pathways. The artwork is also absolutely beautiful.

If you like this one, the studio has a sequel -- Monument Valley 2 ($5) -- which stands on its own as an original story and takes a step forward as a more sophisticated narrative and style. In this one, you must guide Ro and her child through Monument Valley.

Monument Valley and Monument Valley 2 are both available on Apple Arcade as well.

Way of the Turtle

Available through apple arcade subscription ($5 a month).

Way of the Turtle is a cute, colorful, single-player platform game. Navigate a beach obstacle course and gather coins while avoiding traps. As you continue, you'll earn shells that give you more abilities. The only trouble is that Mr. Turtle never stops moving, which might make him difficult to maneuver sometimes.

Fledgling Heroes

Take to the skies as Biscuit the Brave, a young macaw, in this tropical platform game. Tapping the screen makes Biscuit fly. Too much tapping sends the macaw too high, while not enough tapping drops him too low. You must maintain the right altitude to avoid enemies and obstacles while collecting coins. As you explore more islands, you'll learn tricks and meet different characters including Penny the Penguin, who wants to be a pirate.

Read more: The 10 best iPad apps of the past decade

Crayola Create and Play

Crayola Create and Play is loaded with fun features like coloring pages, tending to in-game creatures and plants, learning and arcade-style games, puzzles, and more. It encourages creativity and curiosity with digital versions of Crayola art supplies (remember stamp markers?), while encouraging kids to think about letters, numbers, problem solving and more. There are no "wrong" answers, just creativity. You can also find Crayola Create and Play in the App Store, but you'll encounter in-app purchases and ads.

Pok Pok Playroom

Available through pok pok subscription ($4 a month).

Pok Pok Playroom includes a collection of digital toys and activities that encourage cognitive and socio-emotional development, according to the team, with no winning or losing. The app includes colorful activities like a mix-and-match block game, a drawing pad, and a Busy Board packed with buttons, switches, bells and musical blobs. Pok Pok Playroom also has sections called Town, Forest and House, which further encourage exploration, curiosity and learning.

Run Sackboy! Run

Price: free.

Run Sackboy! Run is the mobile version of the Little Big Planet game series. It's a cute endless runner platformer in the original game's unique crafted-materials style. As you run, you can collect coins, bubbles and stickers to ultimately increase your score. Each level adds on different tasks, like jumping or dashing a certain amount of times.

Eloh is a visually beautiful musical puzzle game that teases your brain without stressing you out. Each level features island spirits that you can move. Once you get them into the right spot, tap the red speaker and music will start. The goal is to bounce the "sound waves" off the spirits and hit the spiral icon, kind of like banking a shot in billiards.

Frogger in Toytown

Embark on a quest inside a human's house to rescue lost "froglets" after they're blown away in a storm. You'll navigate a toy-filled terrain -- avoid toy cars, climb block buildings and collect jelly beans to save the froglets. When you rescue a froglet, it hops on Frogger's back, which is just as cute as it sounds. Carrying the froglets adds an extra challenge during the obstacle courses because they can fall off. If you liked the old-school Frogger, this game's worth a look.

Enchanted World

The Enchanted World is about a young fairy whose world is wrecked by dark forces. You'll help her on a journey to repair and heal what's been damaged. With guidance from a red songbird along the way, you'll get help from a web-spinning spider, quirky robots, a hungry frog and others. Through sliding block-style gameplay , you'll redirect rivers, mend tree roots, rearrange gears on a factory floor and save your world from the darkness.

Rayman Adventures

There are a number of Rayman games that have come out over the years, but there's a free mobile version called Rayman Adventures that your kids can try out. Adventures is an endless runner where players must find all the Ancient Eggs that keep the Sacred Tree alive.

Read more: 11 nostalgic games to play on Apple Arcade if you miss your childhood

Sneaky Sasquatch

Available through apple arcade subscription ($5 a month.

In the infectiously cute game Sneaky Sasquatch, you'll play just that: A sneaky sasquatch. But you also get help from a clever raccoon. Sneak into the campsite and fill your backpack with snacks. Sometimes other animals, like the snoozing bear, are willing to pay for some picnic leftovers. You can use the money at the raccoon's shop. Just make sure you tip-toe so you don't get caught by the surly park ranger or scare any campers.

Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp

In Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp -- the free mobile version of the original simulation game -- you're in charge of a campsite -- craft furniture, personalize your tent and customize your camper. You can travel to different recreation spots, meet animals and grow your friendships in exchange for rewards. While you're visiting, you can fish, gather fruit and collect bugs to trade later. All the friends you make can visit your campsite, too.

Pocket Camp also offers a smaller world to manage compared with New Horizons. In addition, the tasks are easier on the mobile version, and update daily. Essentially, you're getting big rewards for picking up everything on the ground and shaking all the trees.

Pocket Camp also offers a smaller world to manage compared with New Horizons. In addition, the tasks are easier on the mobile version and update daily. Essentially, you're getting big rewards for picking up everything on the ground and shaking all the trees. It definitely helped me scratch the FOMO itch when most of my friends were playing Animal Crossing over the summer.

Doomsday Vault

In this WALL-E style puzzle game, the Earth's climate has collapsed and you must rescue the remaining plant life. Explore what's left of the planet in your robot suit, collect plant life and return it safely to the Doomsday Vault. Just be careful -- there are AI bots that were left behind motivated by sentiments of corporate greed.

Inbento is an adorable puzzle game about cats and bento boxes. Relax with these cute Japanese lunch box brainteasers. Rearrange the food to match the recipe to complete the box. Each level gets a little more difficult, but the whole game is set to soothing music. There are over 100 levels to beat and extra-challenging bonus levels.

Gorogoa is a gorgeous puzzle game with an accompanying narrative. It's all hand-drawn panels that players have to combine in a certain way to solve the level. It's hard to explain this one without playing it yourself. The more puzzles you play, the more your mind acclimates to the puzzle style. Gorogoa transports players between realities full of strange creatures. Reviews suggest playing it multiple times for better understanding.

The Pinball Wizard

In The Pinball Wizard, you play as a young apprentice who must bring peace back to your homeland by restoring a lost treasure in a high tower. Along the way, you must defeat enemies and collect keys to find the next room. The game works like a pinball game: The higher you go, the more health you lose if you fall out of the ring.

Fruit Ninja

Fruit Ninja is an oldie but a goody. It's a simple concept -- as fruit is tossed up on the screen, you use your finger to slice it up as fast as you can. Just watch out for the bombs that start getting tossed into the mix as well. It's a fun way to pass the time and has different modes to play in, like Zen, where there's no bombs, but it's timed. If you lose on a level, you can sacrifice a life to continue, or watch an ad to progress for free.

Donut County

This is an adorable, creative game. Donut County is taken over by raccoons who are stealing everyone's trash with remote-controlled holes. You play as the hole. The game's story takes a turn when one of the raccoons falls into the hole he's operating and has to answer for his actions. The trouble is, the holes keep growing and won't stop until the whole county has been gobbled up.

Spongebob: Patty Pursuit

Spongebob: Patty Pursuit is a fun platformer that takes you through the Spongebob universe. Jump on trampolines, speed down ziplines, avoid jellyfish, and collect coins and spatulas along the way to foil the infamous mini-villain Plankton's plans to steal the Krabby Patty secret formula. It's up to SpongeBob and his friends -- Patrick, Sandy, Squidward, Gary the Snail and Mr. Krabs -- to stop him.

Age 9 and up

Blocky world-building game Minecraft lets players explore, gather resources, craft tools and engage in some mild combat. The game has different modes -- survival, creative, adventure, spectator and multiplayer -- so you have flexibility in how you play. For younger players, Minecraft teaches teamwork and the motivation to improve reading and math skills on top of creativity and self-direction.

Down in Bermuda

A pilot named Milton crashes on a seemingly deserted island in Bermuda, where you must help him discover the island's secrets and solve puzzles to find a way home. It's a cute, colorful game that's perfect for just about everyone. I liked that there was just enough mystery and story mixed in with puzzle-solving.

The Crossy Road series

The original Crossy Road asks the question "why did the chicken cross the road?" in the form of a classic infinite runner game. Think Frogger meets Flappy Bird. Crossy Road Castle joined Apple Arcade in February 2020, which adds a platforming element to the gameplay.

If you grew up in the '90s, you might remember this game. You must guide the Zoombinis out of the evil Bloats' clutches and home to Zoombiniville. Each of the 12 levels such as Allergic Cliffs, Stone Cold Caves and Pizza Pass get progressively more challenging, with kids using logic and pattern identification to win.

Lego Brawls

The Lego brand has stood the test of time, making the jump from plastic blocks to the silver screen to video games . Lego Brawls is a mobile fighting game that's easy to start playing. The game offers countless ways to create your Lego character in a fast-paced 4v4 multiplayer. Every stage of the game brings new challenges, goals and quirky power-ups, like a pie launcher, a cactus suit, a snake car or a hot dog stand. Jump into a party, join a brawl or keep training.

Oceanhorn 2: Knights of the Lost Realm

Oceanhorn 2 is an open-world action fantasy RPG that tells the story of a young knight on a quest with his friends to save the world from an evil warlock. The knight ventures out with Trin, the granddaughter of Arcadia's leader Archimedes, and Gen, a robot armed with a Samurai weapon. The trio must unite with the Owrus, Gillfolk and others to save the world from Warlock Mesmeroth's Dark Army.

Alto's Adventure Price: $5

Alto's Adventure is to endless runners what Monument Valley is to puzzle games. The game puts a new twist on sports adventure as you -- as Alto -- snowboard across scenic hills, down gorgeous mountainsides and through villages with day-to-night transitions. It's all set to a lovely soundtrack as well. Rescue animals, collect coins, outsmart mountain elders and brave the weather along the way.

You can also check out Alto's Odyssey ($5), the studio's follow-up game, as well as Alto's Odyssey: The Lost City, on Apple Arcade.

Terraria is similar to Minecraft, but it's 2D. You create a character, select your world size and start harvesting resources to craft items. Once you get a home, a worktable and a torch, the game really picks up. With a light, you can go underground and start mining resources there, in addition to treasure chests that can contain gear upgrades, and life crystals to raise your health. It's a pretty big open-world game and there are enemies you'll encounter, but if you die, you'll respawn with all your loot, sans a few coins.

Butter Royale

Butter Royale is like Fortnite with food. The game is set in the near future, where weapons have been banned globally. In a cafe, a food fight erupted after two patrons began arguing over the last chocolate doughnut. Sensing an opportunity to capitalize on people's tension, mysterious company Butter Co. created a game show called Butter Royale. Contestants are air-dropped onto an island to duke it out with food. After upgrading from stale baguettes to Nutritionally Operated Machines, or NOMs, players engage in "culinary combat," and try to outrun floods of butter and get to safe zones in 5-minute matches.

24 incredible video games you can finish in one night

Age 12 and up

Miracle Merchant

This game caught my attention because it reminded me of the Adventure Time cartoon. Miracle Merchant is solitaire meets potion brewing with a cast of zany, colorful characters. All your "potion ingredients" are in the card decks and organized by color, a potion is a mix of four cards. How well you mix the potion -- your arrangement of cards -- determines how much money it's worth. It's a fun, unintimidating problem-solving game.

Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley is a comfort classic in the vein of Animal Crossing . In the Super Nintendo-style simulation RPG, you've inherited your grandfather's farm plot in Stardew Valley. Start out with little money and old tools, then work your way up from there. You'll farm, live off the land as you see fit, explore Pelican Town and befriend its residents, search for treasure, decorate your home and maybe even fall in love.

Read more: 7 great, cheap kid-friendly gifts that aren't video games

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11 Great Games to Educate and Entertain Your Kids at Home

If you're stuck inside and your kids are climbing the walls, but you aren't yet ready to let them watch Netflix from dawn to dusk, well, I don't blame you. Here are some games that are sometimes called "edutaining." Think of them as fun games that also teach something, but in a way your kids probably won't notice.

I do suggest setting some screen time limits before handing your children a device, but with these options you can at least rest assured that your kids are learning something.

If you buy something using the links in our stories, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Here’s how this works . You can also support our reporting and reviewing by purchasing a 1-year print + digital WIRED subscription for $5 (Discounted) .

Ages 6-12 ( Computer , iOS , Android )

Animal Jam is an online virtual world originally created in collaboration with the National Geographic Society. It teaches kids about zoology and ecology with games, adventures, and parties and online social elements. With 160 million registered users, this is one of the largest virtual worlds for kids. If the online play gives you pause, know that the parental controls are pretty good, allowing you to lock down the game if you desire.

Ages 5 and up on Nintendo Switch ( GameStop , Amazon )

11 Great Educational Games for Kids to Play at Home

This is a great game that encourages spacial thinking and unique puzzle solving. Kids can pilot Toad through courses based on the Super Mario Odyssey game while hunting down treasures and solving puzzles.

This math-based role-playing game is free to play. Kids proceed through the game by answering skill-building math questions to earn rewards. There's an interactive element, too; they can go on quests with friends. The difficulty levels increase as your kids make progress in the game.

Ages 3-8 ( iOS , Android )

Image may contain Pac Man Electronics Computer and Tablet Computer

This physics puzzle game features rolling aliens that teach your kids about acceleration, buoyancy, gravity, and more. Like games of yesteryear, there are no ads, no in-app purchases, and it doesn't need an internet connection.

Ages 4 and Up ( Computer , iOS , Android )

Image may contain Wheel Machine Transportation Vehicle Bike and Bicycle

Tinybop has dozens of learning-oriented apps and we've been fans for years . You can purchase them in bundles for iPhone or iPad (Android users there is one Tinybop bundle in the Play Store which has six games.) My kids love the Curiosity Kit ($16) , which includes apps about the human body, animal anatomy, and space. Tinybop is currently offering its Tinybop Schools subscription , which features ten science apps and classroom support, for free through the summer to help out parents and kids while schools are closed (no credit card required).

Ages 4 and Up ( iOS , Android )

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Dragonbox games are primarily math-related, though they also partnered with chess champ Magnus Carlsen to create Magnus' Kingdom , a chess-learning game that's been very popular in my house. It uses an adventure-style approach to teach kids about different chess pieces and how to play. I strongly suggest picking up a real-world chess board (I like this no-stress chess board for beginners $18 ) as well. Your kids will ask for it. Trust me.

Ages 3 and Up ( Computer , iOS , Android )

It's time you let delightful animated monsters teach your kids everything from basic ABCs to complex sentences. It has puzzle games with talking letters and well-illustrated definitions to help your child learn to read. Originator, the publisher of Endless Alphabet , has many other games as well , including Endless Reader , which helps kids learn sight words, and Endless Spanish which helped my kids significantly improve their Spanish vocabulary.

Ages 4-6 ( Computer )

This language, arts, and music learning site has dozens of games and activities to help your kids learn to read, add, subtract, and identify shapes.

Ages 4-8 ( iOS , Android )

PBS Kids has dozens of apps, many of them related to the shows on PBS Kids. If your kids like a particular show, they'll probably really engage with its related game, as well.

Ages 4 and Up ( iOS )

Stop-motion animation is a fun form of art that teaches patience. This animation app will help your kids start creating their own little animated masterpieces. The interface is reasonably simple, but it might require the help of an adult the first time through.

All ages ( Apple Podcasts for iOS , Google Podcasts for Android )

Image may contain Nature Outdoors Building Countryside Housing Rural Shelter and Hut

Check out our guide to kids' podcasts for some ideas on great podcasts that will keep your kids entertained. If you're a podcast fan yourself, you should try using Pocket Casts (great app). I suggest getting a separate podcast app for your kids, so there's no way they'll accidentally end up listening to any adult content you don't want them to hear.

March 25, 9 am: This story was updated to add links to the Tinybop Android app bundle.

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Best Apps for Kids Age 5–8

The best mobile apps for kindergartners and early elementary schoolers cover a spectrum of entertainment and educational offerings. At this age, socialization and creativity are key -- and believe it or not, there are several quality apps for that! When choosing apps for this age group, go beyond the usual arcade games (although those can be fun) to apps that help kids express their feelings and unleash their creativity . Check out the rest of our app tips for more advice on how to find and download the best picks for your kids.

Crazy Gears

Fun STEM-themed free play with easy offscreen connections.

DIY.org – Creative Challenges

How-to videos ignite curiosity and nurture key skills.

Kahoot! Algebra by DragonBox

Kids learn concepts of algebra in stellar game app.

Faces iMake - Right Brain Creativity

Kids make fanciful facial art using everyday objects.

GoNoodle Games

Jump, wave, and wiggle with fun immersive movement games.

GoNoodle - Kids Videos

Get hearts pumping with fun, kid-friendly movement videos.

The little line

Sweet animated story of friendship uses kids' own drawings.

LOOPIMAL by YATATOY

Create sound sequences with music blocks, cute creatures.

$Marble Math Junior Poster Image$

Marble Math Junior

Younger kids' version of great math app holds its own.

Monkey Word School Adventure

Cute monkey guides kids through six early-reading games.

Pango Build Park

Imagine, create, and play at custom theme parks.

Plum's Creaturizer

Make creatures and take pics outside for fantastic fun.

PuppetMaster

Create puppets, craft stories, co-play with cool tools.

Superhero Comic Book Maker

Engaging way to make stories with great graphics and audio.

Adorable physics platformer creates little problem-solvers.

Thinkrolls Play & Code

Delightful puzzles inspire innovation and problem-solving.

Toca Hair Salon 4

Free-play styling game grows, now with in-app purchases.

Creative challenges, social media for kids with purchases.

Interactive word-builder impresses with lots of options.

Barefoot World Atlas

Delightful way to learn about animals, people, and more.

Other great lists from our editors

Apps for Elementary School
Preschool Apps for Android
Spelling Apps
8 Ways to Save (and Spend) on "Free" Apps
5 Ways to Curb Kids' In-App Purchases on the iPhone
5 Teacher-Approved Apps to Boost Kindergarten Skills

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The 11 Best iPad Games for Kids of All Ages

Keep them happy and occupied with great entertainment on iPad

University of Texas at Arlington

The iPad can be the ultimate family entertainment system, with tons of games and entertaining apps that are perfect for kids of all ages. Every game for iOS has a minimum age rating so that you can tell if the game is right for your child.

Many games are free downloads that offer in-app purchases. Other games cost between $.99 and $2.99, with the expensive games rarely going for more than $6, so you don't have to break into your kids' piggy bank to pay for their entertainment.

Turn off in-app purchases before installing games on iPad for your kids. Some games can seem like a great deal until you get the bill with the in-app purchases. If you're looking for virtual reality games for kids, there's a list for that , too.

Candy Crush Saga

Fantastic artwork and unique board designs.

Hundreds of new stages.

A great take on the classic matching game.

It's easy to break the piggy bank on in-app purchases.

Some levels are nearly impossible to pass.

Cost of gold has risen, but the prizes have been reduced.

Appropriate for kids ages 4 and older.

Candy Crush has taken on a life of its own since its release. It mixes the classic connect-the-matching-symbols gameplay with everyone's favorite pastime: eating candy. Candy Crush Saga is good for toddlers, too, because just tapping the screen results in a lot of graphical fun. Older kids will enjoy the puzzles the game presents, and even adults will find it engaging.

Minion Rush

Great costumes.

3D environments based on scenes from the Despicable Me movies.

Download and play for free.

Can be glitchy.

Updates may wipe out progress.

Slow play without certain minions.

Appropriate for kids ages 9 and older.

The endless runner game has exploded since Temple Rush hit the app store, and although many games in this genre are just Temple Rush with new graphics or a new theme, Minion Rush adds fun new gameplay mechanics and includes the humorous charm of those cute little minions. Kids will enjoy this game because it's quick to play and fun to compete for the highest score.

Miracle Merchant

Great graphics and music.

Challenging daily tasks.

Solitaire-style gameplay.

Tutorial not much help.

Could use more variety.

Too difficult for younger children.

Appropriate for kids ages 12 and older.

Miracle Merchant players are apprentices of a master alchemist, where they learn to mix and match different ingredient cards to make potions for their customers. The cards change daily, and daily tasks keep players coming back for more. The gameplay is Solitaire-style and offers amazing graphics and fun music. The basics of the game are easy to learn, but mastering it is difficult.

Fruit Ninja 2

Fantastic graphics and sound effects.

Modes give lots of play options.

Solid folllowup to the original Fruit Ninja.

The game is a bit buggy.

Lots of ads, especially at higher levels.

Some in-app purchases reach $30.

Few games have as many customer reviews as Fruit Ninja 2 and manage to stay above 4 stars, and there's a reason for that. Fruit Ninja 2 is good old-fashioned slicing and dicing fun, with a simple concept and yet enough challenge to keep kids swiping. The goal: Slice as much fruit as you can without slicing through a bomb and blowing your virtual finger off.

Alto's Adventure

Gorgeous graphics.

Play as a snowboarder on never-ending mountains.

Interesting story line.

Is difficult in places.

More characters would be nice.

Alto's Adventure is a infinite runner-type game, where the player is on a snowboard racing down mountains and doing backflips. The game is not too hard and not too easy. The graphics are stunning and the story is interesting, if limited. This app is designated as an Editors' Choice game by Apple.

Where's My Water?

More than 200 puzzles for hours of gameplay.

Water moves realistically.

Easy-to-use controls.

Syncing with iCloud can be glitchy.

Paid app with in-app purchases.

Need in-app purchases for the best experience.

If cleanliness is next to godliness, Swampy is going to make one fun little deity. Rather than slinging birds at boards and stones, Where's My Water? concentrates on teaching kids the value of bathing by helping Swampy the alligator stay clean despite the actions of Cranky, the antagonist of this story. Where's My Water? is one of the best games for kids on the iPad.

Cut the Rope GOLD

Outstanding graphics.

Great way to learn about physics.

Lots of levels to keep you interested.

Difficult for children under 10, despite the rating.

Paid app contains ads.

Om Nom loves his candy, but he needs a little help getting it. Cut the Rope GOLD is a physics puzzle game in which kids use ropes to move a piece of candy, swinging it across the screen and — with luck — into Om Nom's mouth. Fortunately, it's not as simple as it sounds, forcing kids to think about how to get past the various obstacles standing between Om Nom and his candy.

Slice Fractions

Playful learning at its best.

Best for kids aged 5 to 12.

Teaches important math concepts.

Challenging for kids under 6.

Difficult for kids who learn by listening.

Some levels require abstract thinking.

Many kid-friendly games are about having fun, not about learning something new. Plenty of educational apps in the App Store can engage a child's mind, but when a game blends having fun with learning, it definitely deserves a mention on this list.

Slice Fractions manages to capture fun inside a game that's all about learning fractions. It's ideal for kids who are ready to move beyond whole numbers and conquer division.

Bubble Ball

Create your own levels or play levels created by others.

A fun way to learn physics.

The first 48 levels are free.

Won't challenge older kids.

Graphics aren't terribly sophisticated.

Rudimentary user interface.

What do you get when you have an addictive physics-based puzzle game made by a kid rather than just for kids? You get Bubble Ball. Developed by 14-year-old Robert Nay, Bubble Ball enjoyed a million downloads in its first two weeks on the App Store. The game doesn't have the fun graphics found in titles like Cut the Rope and Fruit Ninja, but it does contain engaging play that will please puzzle lovers ages 4 to 94.

AniMatch: Animal Matching Game

Great sound effects.

Really holds young kids' attention.

A great spin on the classic memory game.

Can't turn off sounds.

Not updated recently.

Appropriate for kids ages 2-3.

Would a list of the iPad games for kids be complete without a matching game? Whether you use playing cards spread out on a table or cute animals aligned on a tablet, there's just something about matching up pictures that can delight your little ones. AniMatch: Animal Matching Game is a great iPad game that a two- or three-year-old can enjoy — if you can get the iPad away from the older kids.

Drawing Pad

Has just about every drawing tool you can think of.

Print, share, and save your kids' drawings.

Great for kids of all ages.

The app can be unstable.

Parent's need to monitor the app's access to social media sites.

Can be challenging to fine-tune colors.

Last on this list is an app that's not a game. Drawing Pad is simply a vehicle for an activities that all kids enjoy: drawing and using their imagination. Not only can your kids use the virtual crayons in Drawing Pad , but they can save their work and even share it by email or on social media.

As of 2022, of the almost 3.6 million apps at the App Store, 984,000 are games. Games are the most popular App Store category and are downloaded twice as much as the 2nd most popular category (business).

Of all the apps at the App Store, 92.3 percent are free downloads (many with optional in-app purchases). The average price for an game that isn't free is under $3.

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Best iPad games for a 4-5 year old

Have a 4.5 yr old and wondering what would be the best iPad apps from an educational/entertainment perspective for this age group?

Looking for games, not reading or video apps that will get him to think/interact with the iPad, not just watch passively.

Loved: Khan Academy Kids

Liked: Sago Mini World, Endless Numbers

Didn't enjoy: Toca

(an aside: he loves dinosaurs)

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Best Games For 5 Year Olds Ipad Free
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Eğitsel oyunlar 5 farklı bahçe oyunları (educational games 5)(juegos educacionales)(giochi educativi

COMMENTS

30 Best Educational iPad Games for Kids in 2024 (Free and Paid)
ABCmouse is one of the most popular educational iPad games for kids who are learning to read, count, and more. They offer thousands of learning activities across the curriculum, including hundreds in Spanish. It requires a subscription ($12.99/month or $45/year), but you can try it for free for 30 days to see if you like it.
Best iPad Games for 4-5 Year Old Kids (2021)
Price: $4.99. This is yet another stellar game for your 4- or 5-year-old kid. Supported on Android and iOS devices, the game allows the kid to learn the basics of algebra. It is easy to play and adds much-needed education value to your kid. All that a kid needs to do is to drag and drop cards on trays in a bid to solve the x equation.
Best Apps for 5- and 6-Year Olds
Devices: Android, iPhone, iPad. Download for Android Download for iOS. 2. ... Games is a great activity for your children with more than 100 games and different difficulty levels in the scope of educational games for 5-year-olds. There are fun games, like spelling and word-finding! It is not just verbal intelligence games; math intelligence ...
30 Teacher-Recommended IPad Educational Games for Kids
1. Zebrainy - ABC Kids Game. Ages: 4+. This game was initially designed for children between two and six years old. Zebrainy has over 700+ educational activities for kids that develop many different skill sets. Even better, the language this app uses aligns with what is taught through the Common Core State Standards.
9 Best Educational Games for iPad
Best iPad Educational Games. 1. Kids Academy. Kids Academy is one of the best iPad game for young learners. Their innovative program blends cutting-edge adaptive technology, artificial intelligence, custom learning paths, and game-like elements to enhance children's learning experience. It makes learning engaging and effective by offering ...
Free, fun educational app for young kids
YouTube videos with interactive stories and lessons. Inspire a lifetime of learning with our educational app for kids ages 2-8. Kids can learn reading, writing, math, counting, ABCs, addition, subtraction, social-emotional skills, & more. 100% free on iPhone, iPad, Android, and Amazon.
20 Teacher Approved iPad Apps for Kids
iPad Apps for Kids: Ages 3 to 5. Learn with Homer is one of those multi-purpose apps. It includes storybooks, learn to read games, drawing… but my favorite feature is its post office. Children can send and receive digital postcards from pre-approved family and friends. It's a brilliant and easy way to encourage long distance communication ...
Top 18 best educational kids games for iPhone and iPad (iOS)
Click through below to find out what are, in our opinion, the 18 best educational kids' games on iPhone & iPad. ... Another variety game for younger players, aged 5 to 10 years old, Coco focuses on a bunch of children's puzzles, from math games to memory games to keep children entertained.
Best Kids' Apps & Games for iPhone/iPad 2020: Fun & Educational
Star Walk Kids. Price: £2.99/$2.99 ( Star Walk Kids on the App Store) Age rating: 4+ (made for 6-8) There are quite a few apps that transform your iPhone or iPad into a virtual means to explore ...
12 Best Educational Apps for 5-Year-Olds
Price: $3.99. Available on iPhone or iPad or Android. 3. Flashnote Derby. Best Music App. This interactive flashcards game introduces kids to musical notes. Kids can choose which notes they want to practice and answer questions about each one. A correct answer moves the derby horse forward.
Some of the Best Online Learning Games for Kids
Buy from Amazon. Ages: 5 to 12. How it works: Osmo Coding Awbie requires a base system—a stand and a mirror that attach to the device's camera and that are compatible with other Osmo games ...
10 Best Ipad Apps For Kids That Make Learning an Adventure
Here are our top picks of iPad apps For Kids: 1. SplashLearn. SplashLearn is an immersive educational platform that makes math and reading an exciting journey for kids. This app offers a personalized learning experience, adapting to each child's pace and style.With some of the best educational games for iPad and rewards for each milestone, SplashLearn stands out as a fun app for iPad that ...
12 Best Free iPad Games For 5 Year Olds
Best Free iPad Games For 5-Year-Olds. 1. Candy Crush Saga. Candy Crush Saga is a legendary puzzle game that mixes the typical connect-the-matching-symbol gameplay with your kid's favorite pastime, eating candy. The game is loved by many and is one of the most popular mobile games. This game can be exciting to 5-year olds, as by simply tapping ...
30 of the Best Educational iPad Games: Kid's Edition
From reading to science to math, favorite characters new and old teach preschool through elementary school kids fun little lessons through gaming. Highlights Hidden Pictures: Classic children's magazine Highlights brings its widely beloved hidden pictures games to the iPad to delight another generation of kiddos needing to build cognitive skills.
Best iPad Games for Kids of All Ages
Best iPad Games for Kids of All Ages. Check out CNET's list of age-appropriate iPad games for kids. Shelby Brown. March 16, 2022 5:00 a.m. PT. 10 min read. Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp is a dialed ...
The 10 Best Free iPad Apps for Toddlers
Featuring Mozzarella the Mouse as a guide, this free iPad app for toddlers features 14 popular children's songs while teaching little ones about notes, pitch, rhythm, and more. Play instruments, create songs, and learn how to read music notes while engaging in age-appropriate games. Download for iPad. 06.
11 Great Educational Games for Kids to Play at Home
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. Ages 5 and up on Nintendo Switch (GameStop, Amazon) Photograph: Switch. This is a great game that encourages spacial thinking and unique puzzle solving. Kids can ...
18 Best iPad Apps for Kids to Keep Them Engaged
13. PJ Masks: Moonlight Heroes. This is among the best iPad gaming apps for kids on every list as it is a game app based on the popular children's TV show PJ Masks. It is a great alternative for enabling kids to practice their cognitive skills while staying entertained.
Best Apps for Kids Age 5-8
Barefoot World Atlas. age 6+. Delightful way to learn about animals, people, and more. Devices: iPhone , iPod Touch , iPad (2012) See full review. Common Sense Media editors help you choose Best Apps for Kids Age 5-8. Our editors' app picks for young kids.
The 11 Best iPad Games for Kids of All Ages
Candy Crush Saga is good for toddlers, too, because just tapping the screen results in a lot of graphical fun. Older kids will enjoy the puzzles the game presents, and even adults will find it engaging. Our Tips and Tricks for Candy Crush Saga. Download Candy Crush Saga. 02.
20 Best Apps for 5 Year Olds
12. DoodleMaths: Primary Maths. This is one of the best maths apps for 5 year olds designed with adaptive algorithms to provide kids with personalized content according to their age and grade level. The app includes games and activities for kids to reinforce their knowledge of mathematical concepts.
21 Free Apps for Kids (Without Hidden In-app Purchases!)
Free apps for kids ages 3-5. 1. Sesame Street. Preschool-age children will love playing and learning with their favorite Sesame Street characters. The free kids app has over 100 games, songs and videos covering every topic from math and science to dealing with big feelings. Download it from the Apple App Store.
Best iPad games for a 4-5 year old : r/Parenting
Ploppypop - A action based game. I guess with all three games your kid can learn/improve different skills (memory, differentiation of objects, reaction) The first two games are completely designed for kids, so there is no data tracking, no ads and the kids cannot be linked outside of the app (you first have to solve some calculations when you ...

30 Best Educational iPad Games for Kids in 2024 (Free and Paid)

Free iPad Games for Kids

Duolingo ABC

PBS Kids Games

iCivics Games

Bedtime Math

Little Alchemy 2

World Geography Quiz Game

Sushi Monster

Lyrical Letters

More Great Educational iPad Games for Kids

Hands-On Equations

Endless Alphabet

Adventure Academy

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Sight Words Ninja

Presidents vs. Aliens

Where’s My Water?

Stack the States 2

Teach Your Monster to Read

Monster Physics

Cut the Rope

Slice Fractions

Reading Raven

Did we miss one of your favorite iPad games for kids? Come share your thoughts in the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

40 Subtraction Activities That Are Nothing Less Than Awesome

Best iPad Games for 4-5 Year Old Kids (2021)

Crazy Gears

iPad Air 5 (2022) Accessories

Final verdict

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6. Word Beach: Fun Spelling Games

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Top 18 best educational kids games for iPhone and iPad (iOS)

1 Metamorphabet

2 Ruffy the Husky: On Ice

4 Oinky the Piggy: On Farm

5 Masha and the Bear Educational

6 The Very Hungry Caterpillar

7 Coco – Educational Game

8 Pinky the Hippo: In the Wild

9 Endless Alphabet

10 Baby Panda's School Bus

11 Montessorium: Intro to Colors

12 Star Walk Kids: Astronomy Game

13 Where's My Water? 2

14 Quick Math Jr.

15 Shape Gurus

16 Minecraft: Education Edition

17 Math Bingo

18 Sago Mini World

Best kids’ apps & games for iPhone/iPad

Best kids’ apps: Ages 5 and under

Endless Alphabet

Laugh & Learn Shapes & Colors

The Monster at the End of This Book with Grover!

Monster Mingle

Montessorium: Intro to Colors

Mr Thorne’s