In today’s digital age, finding the right apps for kids and students can be a daunting task. With an abundance of options available, it’s crucial to choose apps that not only entertain but also contribute to educational development. Our team of experts, in collaboration with our dedicated consumer panel, has rigorously tested numerous apps to bring you the top picks for 2023. Whether your child is in preschool or high school, these apps cater to a variety of age groups and offer engaging content to supplement their learning journey.
1. Best Overall App for Kids: ABCmouse.com
Age: 2-8 | Cost: One-month free trial, then $10/month subscription | Platforms: iOS, Android, Amazon App Store
ABCmouse.com stands out as the unanimous favorite among our testers. This app, available as both a mobile app and a website, employs captivating storyline-based videos, quizzes, and activities. With a virtual map outlining each child’s learning path, ABCmouse.com ensures that toddlers and kids remain engaged while learning.
2. Best Reading App for Kids: Epic!
Age: 2-12 | Cost: One-month free trial, then $8/month | Platforms: iOS, Android
Epic! boasts a vast e-book library with over 35,000 children’s books, including a read-to-me feature for early readers. This app provides a convenient way to incorporate reading into your child’s screen time, making it an excellent choice for families with kids of different ages.
3. Best App for Kids in Preschool: Nick Jr.
Age: 2-7 | Cost: Free (some content requires cable provider information) | Platforms: iOS, Android, Amazon App Store
Nick Jr.’s app allows kids to enjoy their favorite shows on the go, offering a collection of videos and games based on Nick Jr. shows. While some features may require cable provider information, the app still provides access to full episodes and entertaining games for preschoolers.
4. Best App for Kids in Elementary School: Quick Math Jr.
Age: 4-8 | Cost: Free | Platform: iOS
Quick Math Jr. makes learning math enjoyable for elementary school kids with its 12 interactive math games. Featuring unique graphics and buildable characters, this app not only reinforces fundamental math skills but also allows kids to practice handwriting through on-screen drawing.
5. Best App for Kids in High School: Duolingo
Age: 10+ | Cost: Free (optional ad-free Duolingo Plus is $6.99/month) | Platforms: iOS, Android
Duolingo, known for its iconic owl mascot, is an excellent app for high schoolers to learn a new language. With audio exercises, word identification, and oral exercises in over 30 languages, Duolingo is a fun and effective way for students to sharpen their language-learning skills.
6. Best App for Kids Learning the Alphabet: Starfall ABCs
Age: 2-5 | Cost: Free (option to upgrade for $35/year) | Platforms: iOS, Android
Starfall ABCs introduces letters, vowels, and words to young children through fun animations. The app also includes the sign language alphabet, making it a comprehensive tool for early learning. While the free version is impressive, the upgraded version offers additional lessons on math and social skills.
7. Best App for Multiple Kids: Homer Learn & Grow
Age: 2-8 | Cost: $7.99/month | Platforms: iOS, Android
Homer Learn & Grow caters to families with multiple children by allowing up to four kid profiles on a single account. The app provides a personalized learning experience, focusing on numbers, letters, and social skills. Note that the free trial may be challenging to cancel if not interested in the subscription.
8. Best Video App for Kids: Brainpop Jr. Movie of the Week
Age: 6-9 | Cost: Free (optional subscription is $6.99/month) | Platforms: iOS, Android, Amazon App Store
Brainpop Jr. Movie of the Week offers educational videos on various subjects for younger kids, accompanied by short quizzes. While a subscription unlocks the full video library, the free version still provides valuable content on topics like internet safety and bullying.
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9. Best Kids’ App for Coding: Swift Playgrounds
Age: 9+ | Cost: Free | Platform: iOS
Swift Playgrounds, designed by Apple, introduces coding language through puzzles and dynamic visuals. Aimed at older kids and even adults, this app is an engaging way to learn the basics of coding. Please note that it works best on iPads.
10. Best App for Learning Piano: Simply Piano
Age: 4+ | Cost: Free week trial, $120/year | Platforms: iOS, Android
Whether you’re a novice or looking to enhance your piano skills, Simply Piano provides interactive and motivating lessons. Testers appreciated its accessibility and guided program, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone interested in learning to play the piano.
With these top apps for kids and students in 2023, you can turn screen time into a valuable and enjoyable learning experience. Download the apps that best suit your child’s age and interests, and watch as they engage in educational content seamlessly integrated into their digital world.