Top Educational Apps for Kids in 2024

In today’s digital age, educational apps have become a popular tool for enhancing children's learning experiences. With an abundance of apps available, parents and educators can find resources that cater to a variety of learning styles and age groups. These apps offer more than just screen time; they provide interactive and engaging ways for children to learn essential skills, from early literacy to advanced problem-solving.

Finding the right educational app can significantly impact your child’s development by making learning enjoyable and effective. Whether your child is just starting their educational journey or is looking to deepen their knowledge in specific subjects, there is an app designed to meet their needs.

To help you navigate the vast array of options, it’s essential to understand the benefits that educational apps can offer. This insight will not only guide you in selecting the best apps but also will help you understand the impact these apps can have on your child’s development.

The Importance and Advantages of Educational Apps in Child Development

Engagement Through Interactive Learning: Educational apps make learning fun and captivating by using games and animations to hold children’s interest.
Personalized Learning Experiences: Apps adapt to each child’s skill level, providing customized learning paths that cater to their individual needs.
Development of Critical Skills: These apps support the growth of essential skills, from basic concepts in younger children to advanced topics in older kids.
Encouragement of Independent Learning: User-friendly apps allow children to explore and learn on their own, fostering independence and self-motivation.
Immediate Feedback and Assessment: Instant feedback helps children quickly understand and correct their mistakes, reinforcing learning.
Convenient and Accessible Learning: Educational apps provide flexible learning opportunities anytime and anywhere, fitting easily into various schedules.
Encouragement of a Growth Mindset: Apps promote perseverance and a positive attitude by setting achievable goals and celebrating progress.
Parental Involvement and Insight: Features that allow parents to monitor progress help them stay engaged and support their child’s learning effectively.

For Ages 2–5

(Preschool and Kindergarten)

At this age, children are developing basic motor skills, language, and early math concepts. Interactive apps with colorful visuals and engaging activities help lay the foundation for reading, counting, and creativity. Simple, intuitive interfaces are ideal to foster independent exploration.

1. ABCmouse

ABCmouse is a comprehensive early learning app, offering lessons in reading, math, art, and music for kids aged 2-8. Its engaging activities promote the foundational skills children need before starting school.

Free Trial: 30-day free trial
Discount: Up to 49% off an annual subscription

2. Khan Academy Kids

This free educational app from Khan Academy offers a wide range of fun activities in a variety of topics such as math, reading, writing, and social-emotional development for ages 2-7.

For Ages 6–8

(Early Elementary School)

At this stage, children are enhancing reading comprehension, basic math, and problem-solving abilities. Apps that incorporate both educational content and play—like reading libraries or hands-on activities—help them grasp more complex concepts while still enjoying the learning process.

3. Epic! – Kids' Books and Reading

Epic! is a digital reading platform for kids aged 6-12, offering over 40,000 books, audiobooks, and educational videos. It’s ideal for developing reading skills and fostering a love of books.

Free Trial: 30-day free trial
Discount: 20% off an annual subscription

4. Osmo – Genius Starter Kit

Osmo blends physical play with digital learning, using an iPad and tangible objects to teach math, spelling, problem-solving, and creativity to kids aged 5-10.

For Ages 9–12

(Upper Elementary to Pre-Teens)

Older kids are ready for more advanced subjects, including math, coding, and language learning. Apps with game elements or goal-setting features help maintain their engagement while promoting higher-level thinking, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

5. Prodigy Math Game

Prodigy Math is a game-based learning platform designed to make math practice fun for kids aged 6-12. Its engaging RPG format keeps older kids entertained while reinforcing math concepts aligned with the curriculum.

6. Duolingo

Duolingo makes language learning accessible for kids and adults alike. Its kid-friendly design and gamified lessons make learning new languages fun and manageable for children aged 8 and up.

Free Trial: Free with optional in-app purchases
Discount: 30% off on Duolingo Plus

7. ScratchJr

ScratchJr introduces basic coding concepts to children aged 5-7 through interactive storytelling and animation creation. It's a simplified version of the popular Scratch platform, designed for young learners.

Free Trial: Always free

Choosing the right educational app depends on your child’s age, learning style, and interests. The apps listed here offer age-appropriate features and benefits that can support your child's development in engaging and effective ways. From early learning to advanced topics, these tools provide valuable resources that complement traditional education.

By integrating these educational apps into your child’s routine, you support their learning journey in a fun, interactive, and personalized manner. These apps not only make learning enjoyable but also foster skills that are crucial for their academic and personal growth.

Investing in these educational tools helps pave the way for a brighter future for your child. Explore and let us know which one's worked for you and what other apps are out there!