18 Best iPad Apps for Kids to Keep Them Engaged
iPad apps offer a range of entertainment options for kids, including games, interactive storytelling, videos and shows, and creative tools. These apps can provide an entertaining way for kids to learn new skills and concepts while also having fun.
Whether it's developing problem-solving skills through games, sparking imagination through interactive storytelling, or expressing ingenuity through creative tools, good apps can provide a valuable source of entertainment and learning for kids.
However, with so many alternatives available in app stores, choosing the best ones can be daunting for parents. But don't worry; we've got you covered! In this blog post, you will explore the best iPad apps for kids that will keep them entertained and stimulate their cognitive skills.
Favorite iPad Apps for Kids
It is essential for kids to engage with apps that provide both educational value and entertainment. Not only does this make learning more enjoyable for kids, but it also ensures that they retain information better.
Let's take a closer look at some of the best iPad learning apps for kids that teach different subjects while ensuring that they have fun.
1. Learn to Read - Duolingo ABC
Duolingo ABC is a fun and interactive app designed to help young children learn how to read. With its colorful animations and engaging games, it is one of the best reading apps for kids iPad.
The app teaches children about phonics, letter recognition, and basic reading skills in an entertaining way. It also features an interactive parent dashboard for parents to monitor their child's language development.
- Price: Free
- Best for kids aged 3 to 6
- Support available: Email and help center
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Performance-tracking tools | Limited to teaching basic reading skills |
| Great for linguistic skills | |
| Ad-free | |
2. MentalUP Brain Games
MentalUP is the ultimate app that kids love, and parents trust! It is a scientifically designed learning app created by educators, academicians, pedagogical experts, and game developers to provide kids with the most engaging and beneficial learning experience possible.
With its innovative approach to learning, the app is recognized by leading universities, like Troy, Washington, and Indiana, and has even received the Evidence of Impact award from University College London for its academic contribution.
What sets MentalUP apart from other learning apps is its adaptive algorithms. Using this technology, the app constantly tests kids and provides them with brain training games and exercises tailored to their needs, interests, and skills.
The app features 150+ brain training games and 240+ fitness exercises for kids of all ages, making it accessible to all. MentalUP is a rare resource that helps kids holistically expand their development in a safe and enjoyable way because it has no ads.
With MentalUP, your child can unlock their full potential and take their skills to the next level. Donโt forget that it is available on any PC, tablet, or smartphone. So your children can use it anytime and anywhere. ๐ฎ
Also, you can benefit from MentalUPโs rich performance-tracking and reporting tools to track your kids' progress and development. So what are you waiting for? ๐
Give your child the ultimate gift of cognitive and physical development with MentalUP today. Let's make learning fun and exciting for your child. ๐
- Price: Regional price
- Best for kids of all ages
- Support available: Email and help center
| MentalUP Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Kid-friendly | Free content may be limited |
| Great for both cognitive and physical development | |
| Performance-tracking tools | |
| Personalized learning experience | |
3. OLogy: Science for Kids
OLogy: Science for Kids is an app that introduces children to the world of science through interactive games, videos, and articles. If your kid is interested in science, this might be one of the best free educational apps for kids iPad arsenal.
The app covers a variety of topics, including biology, earth science, and astronomy, and is designed to promote curiosity and critical thinking. It is also ad-free, which makes it a great resource for learning about science topics in a fun and safe way.
- Price: Free
- Best for kids aged 8 to 12
- Support available: Email
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Kid-friendly | No performance tracking |
| Wide range of topics | Can be only used on iOS devices |
| Great for curiosity and critical thinking | |
4. Toca Life World: Build a Story
This is one of the best kids apps for iPad that encourages creativity and imagination through an open-ended play experience. It is a fun game app that allows kids to build their own stories.
The app encourages kids to create scenarios by designing their own characters, buildings, and even settings, which makes it one of the most engaging apps for kids. The app includes all the other Toca Life games and activities and can be used on both Android and iOS devices.
- Price: Free with in-app purchases
- Best for kids aged 6 to 12
- Support available: Email
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Open-ended play experience | No performance tracking |
| Ad-free | Limited educational value |
| Great for creativity and imagination | |
5. Sago Mini Friends
Sago Mini Friends is an app that promotes social and emotional development through interactive play. It is one of the best iPad gaming apps for kids that promotes empathy, creativity, and sharing with others.
The app allows kids to explore a virtual world filled with colorful characters and engaging activities, including puzzles, mini-games, and dress-up. Plus, it is ad-free and can be used in online and offline modes.
- Price: $3.99
- Best for kids aged 2 to 5
- Support available: Email
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Kid-friendly | May not be as engaging for older children |
| Great for social and emotional development | No performance tracking |
| Interactive play experience | |
6. Zen Studio - Meditation for Kids
Zen Studio is a finger painting app that allows children to create digital artwork using a variety of tools and colors. The app features a blank canvas where children can paint using their fingers, as well as tools, such as paintbrushes, markers, and spray paint.
The app also features stickers and stamps that children can use to decorate their artwork. So it is one of the best creative apps for kids on iPad that provides a calming and stress-free environment for children to express their creativity.
- Price: Free with in-app purchases
- Best for kids of all ages
- Support available: Email
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Encourages creativity and imagination | No performance tracking |
| Kid-friendly | Limited educational value |
| Wide range of colors and tools | |
7. HOMER: Fun Learning for Kids
Homer is an educational app that offers personalized learning programs for children ages 2-8. The app covers a variety of topics, including reading, math, and social-emotional skills.
Homer is one of the best apps for iPad kids can use for a personalized learning path based on their age, interests, and learning level. Also, the app provides kids with an engaging learning experience with interactive games, stories, and songs that are designed to make learning fun.
- Price: Free with in-app purchases
- Best for kids aged 2 to 8
- Support available: Help center
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Personalized learning experience | May not be as engaging for older kids |
| Kid friendly | No performance-tracking tools |
| Wide range of content and activities | Too many in-app purchases |
As a parent, you want to make sure that your child is getting the most out of their screen time and boost him or her skills with and entertaining way. Choosing the right iPad learning apps for kids can make all the difference in their development and growth.
The certified learning games app MentalUP was created by academicians, game developers, and educators with a holistic and innovative approach to learning. It is the ultimate app that provides kids with both brain training games and physical education exercises. ๐
You donโt need to waste your time trying to find a safe and fun learning app for your kids. If you want your child to excel in school and beyond, choose MentalUP. โจ
8. Trace It, Try It - Handwriting Exercises for Kids
Trace It, Try It is a handwriting app that helps children practice their writing skills through a variety of exercises and tracing activities. With its contribution to kids' fine motor and handwriting skills, it is among the best educational kids apps for iPad users.
The app features a wide range of tracing and writing activities that can improve kids' letter formation and in turn, handwriting. It also includes fun animations and sound effects to keep kids engaged for a long time.
- Price: $3.99
- Best for kids aged 4 to 8
- Support available: In-app support
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Kid-friendly | Limited to teaching handwriting skills |
| Great for fine motor skills | No performance tracking |
| Wide range of exercises and activities | May not be as engaging for children who do not enjoy writing |
9. PBS KIDS Video
This is among the best apps for kids on iPad who enjoy watching fun videos and cartoons. PBS KIDS Video is an app that offers a variety of educational videos from the PBS KIDS television series.
The app includes content from popular shows, such as Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, Wild Kratts, and Sesame Street. The videos cover a wide range of topics, including math, science, and social-emotional learning.
- Price: Free with in-app purchases
- Best for kids of all ages
- Support available: Help center
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Kid-friendly | No performance-tracking tools |
| Can be used online and offline | Limited to educational videos |
| Wide range of educational content | May not be as engaging for children who prefer interactive activities |
10. Bugs and Buttons
Bugs and Buttons is an educational app that helps children develop cognitive and fine motor skills through a variety of mini-games. It is one of the best apps for kids on the iPad, especially for toddlers.
The app includes 18 different games, each designed to help children learn and practice a specific skill, such as counting, sorting, and matching. It is also a great resource for helping kids expand their pattern recognition, hand-eye coordination, and critical thinking skills.
- Price: $2.99
- Best for kids aged 2 to 8
- Support available: Email
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Great for cognitive and fine motor skills | No performance-tracking tools |
| Kid-friendly | Limited educational value for older children |
| Intriguing graphics | |
11. WWF Together
This is one of the best free iPad apps for kids and adults alike. WWF Together is an educational app that teaches individuals about the world's wildlife through interactive experiences.
The app includes features such as videos, photos, and 3D interactive models of animals. It also includes information on conservation efforts and ways that children can get involved. So if you want to promote kids' environmental awareness and help them expand their naturalistic skills, you can check out this app.
- Price: Free
- Suitable for kids of all ages
- Support available: Email and in-app support
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Helps children learn about wildlife and conservation | May not be as engaging for children who prefer more structured activities |
| Kid-friendly | Limited content |
| Suitable for children of all ages | |
12. Tynker: Coding for Kids
Tynker is an educational app that teaches children the basics of coding through interactive games and activities. It might be one of the best educational apps for iPad for kids as it helps them develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
The app features over 2,000 coding activities, including puzzles, games, and quizzes. It provides kids with a comprehensive coding curriculum, including a variety of step-by-step coding lessons and tutorials.
- Price: Free with in-app purchases
- Best for kids aged 5 to 18
- Support available: Email
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Great for improving coding skills | The subscription-based model may be expensive for some users |
| Offers free trial | No performance tracking |
| Might contain ads | |
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.
The app allows children to play as their favorite PJ Masks characters and complete missions using a variety of tools and gadgets. It includes features such as puzzles, mini-games, and interactive stories.
- Price: Free with in-app purchases
- Best for kids aged 4 to 8
- Support available: Email
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Great for entertainment | No performance tracking |
| Kid-friendly | May not be as engaging for older kids |
| Engaging and interactive gaming experience | |
14. Petting Zoo by C. Niemann
Petting Zoo is an interactive app that allows children to engage with hand-drawn animals through touch and sound. The app includes 21 animated animals, which respond to children's touch and movement with various sounds and animations.
The app provides children with a fun and interactive way to develop their cognitive skills by exploring cause-and-effect relationships, hand-eye coordination, and creativity. So it may be one of the best apps for kids iPad provides.
- Price: $3.99
- Best for kids aged 2 to 5
- Support available: Email
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Intuitive and easy-to-use interface | Limited content may not provide long-term engagement |
| Encourages creativity and exploration | No performance-tracking tools |
| Kid-friendly | |
15. Dumb Ways JR Boffo's Breakfast
Dumb Ways JR Boffo's Breakfast is a fun and educational game designed for young children. The game features Boffo the Clown, who needs help preparing breakfast for his circus friends.
The app is great for sparking kidsโ cognitive skills, such as attention, memory, and problem solving, by presenting children with fun and engaging challenges. It also helps develop hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills by requiring children to use touch-and-drag movements.
- Price: $2.99
- Best for kids aged 3 to 6
- Support available: Email
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Fun and educational | May not be suitable for older children |
| Great for teaching kids about foods | Limited content |
| Kid-friendly | |
16. Leeloo AAC
This is one of the best iPad apps for kids with autism. It is a communication app designed for children with autism and other speech disorders. Developed with AAC and PECS principles, the app features a wide range of cards to help children express themselves.
The app is great for cognitive skills, such as attention, memory, and communication. It also promotes social and emotional development by helping children connect with others and express their needs and feelings.
- Price: Free with in-app purchases
- Best for kids aged 3 years old and up
- Support available: Email
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Promotes communication and social skills | Too many in-app purchases |
| Engaging and interactive interface | No performance tracking |
| Parental controls | |
17. Tayasui Sketches
Tayasui Sketches is a digital sketchbook and drawing app that allows children to create their own artwork using a variety of brushes, colors, and textures. It is among the best iPad drawing apps for kids who enjoy drawing.
The app features a simple and intuitive interface with a range of tools and options for children to experiment with. It promotes children's cognitive skills, such as attention, perception, and creativity.
It also accelerates the development of kids' fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination by requiring them to use touch-and-drag movements.
- Price: Free with in-app purchases
- Best for kids aged 6 years and up
- Support available: Email and help center
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| Wide range of drawing tools | Might contain ads |
| Great for creativity and artistic skills | |
18. Kids Autism Games - AutiSpark
This is one of the best iPad apps for autistic kids who enjoy playing games. The app offers an educational program especially made for children with autism. It features a wide range of games, activities, and puzzles that teach them basic math and linguistic skills.
The app is also great for expanding cognitive abilities, such as memory, visual recognition, attention, as well as social and emotional skills. So it is a great option for helping kids to keep core concepts in mind and learn the basic skills needed on a daily basis.
- Price: Free with in-app purchases
- Best for kids aged 2 to 8 years old
- Support available: Email and in-app support
| Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
| What we like | What we donโt like |
| User-friendly interface | Might contain ads |
| Great for social, communication, and emotional regulation skills | |
| Progress-tracking tools | |
Are you tired of sifting through endless learning apps for your child? Look no further than MentalUP - the top-rated app that is trusted by parents and educators around the world! ๐ช
With its captivating games and challenging activities, MentalUP is designed to help your child develop essential skills like memory, attention, and problem-solving. It's the perfect tool to ensure your child's screen time is both entertaining and educational. ๐
What makes MentalUP stand out is its fun and interactive approach to learning. With personalized programs that cater to each child's unique needs and progress, MentalUP keeps kids motivated to learn and achieve their full potential. ๐
The Best iPad Apps for Kids Features Summary Table
| Best iPad Apps for Kids Features Summary Table | ||
|---|---|---|
| App | Subscription Fees or In-App Purchases | Features |
| Learn to Read - Duolingo ABC | Free |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads X In-app purchases โ Performance tracking โ Great for linguistic skills |
| MentalUP Brain Games | Regional price |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads X In-app purchases โ Performance tracking โ Personalized learning experience โ Great for both cognitive and physical development |
| OLogy: Science for Kids | Free |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads X In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Wide range of science topics โ Great for curiosity and critical thinking |
| Toca Life World: Build a Story | Free with in-app purchases |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads โ In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Open-ended play experience โ Great for creativity and imagination |
| Sago Mini Friends | $3.99 |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads X In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Interactive play experience โ Great for social and emotional development |
| Zen Studio - Meditation for Kids | Free with in-app purchases |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads โ In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Encourages creativity and imagination โ Wide range of colors and tools |
| HOMER: Fun Learning For Kids | Free with in-app purchases |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads โ In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Personalized learning experience โ Wide range of activities |
| Trace it, Try it | $3.99 |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads X In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Great for fine motor skills โ Wide range of activities and writing exercises |
| PBS KIDS Video | Free with in-app purchases |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads โ In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Offline and online modes โ Wide range of educational content |
| Bugs and Buttons | $2.99 |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads X In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Great for cognitive and fine motor skills โ Intriguing graphics |
| WWF Together | Free |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads X In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Helps children learn about wildlife and conservation |
| Tynker: Coding for Kids | Free with in-app purchases |
X Child-safe/No in-app ads โ In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Great for improving coding skills |
| PJ Masks: Moonlight Heroes | Free with in-app purchases |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads โ In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Great for entertainment โ Engaging and interactive gaming experience |
| Petting Zoo | $3.99 |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads X In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Intuitive and easy-to-use interface โ Encourages creativity and exploration |
| Dumb Ways JR | $2.99 |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads X In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Great for teaching kids about food โ Fun and educational |
| Leeloo AAC | Free with in-app purchases |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads โ In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Promotes communication and social skills โ Engaging and interactive interface |
| Tayasui Sketches | Free with in-app purchases |
X Child-safe/No in-app ads โ In-app purchases X Performance tracking โ Great for creativity and artistic skills โ Wide range of drawing tools |
| Kids Autism Games - AutiSpark | Free with in-app purchases |
โ Child-safe/No in-app ads โ In-app purchases โ Performance tracking โ Great for social, communication, and emotional regulation skills โ User-friendly interface |
Tips to Choose the Best iPad Learning Apps for Kids
It's essential to choose apps that are age-appropriate, engaging, and designed to meet your child's specific needs. Here are a few additional tips to help you choose the best iPad learning apps for your child:
- Look for apps that are designed by reputable developers and have positive reviews from other parents and educators.
- Check if the app has any awards or recognition from trusted organizations.
- Consider apps that focus on developing specific skills, such as reading, math, or problem solving.
- Search for apps that offer a range of activities and cater to different learning styles.
- Prefer apps with clear navigation and intuitive controls to keep kids engaged.
- Make sure the app is not only educational but also enjoyable.
- Check if the app offers game-like elements, fun animations, or interactive features to keep kids interested.
- Beware of apps that have too many in-app purchases, as they can be distracting.
- Try to choose ad-free apps if possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
So far, we have evaluated the best iPad apps for kids to help you choose the right ones for your kid. If you still have some questions left in your mind, letโs take a look at the most commonly asked questions about the best kids apps for iPad users.
What are the best free iPad apps for kids?
The answer to this question depends on your kidโs interests, age, and skills. However, PBS, Duolingo, and OLogy can be examples of the best free iPad apps for kids.
What are the best learning apps for kids on iPad?
Some of the best learning apps for kids on iPad include MentalUP, Homer, and Sago Mini Friends due to their interactive features and extensive educational content.
What are the teacher approved iPad apps for kids?
MentalUP, OLogy, HOMER, Leeloo AAC, PBS Kids, and Trace It Try It are teacher-approved iPad apps for kids.
We all know that children are our future. Therefore, when choosing the right apps for them, it is essential to be aware of the educational values of the apps and if they are safe and provide entertainment for kids.
Whatever your kidโs needs are, MentalUP is here to help. With its wide range of content, intriguing layout, and exciting features, like screen-time limiting and performance tracking, it can be your partner in crime to provide your kids with a continuous learning experience. ๐
Additionally, it has no ads to provide kids of all ages with a safe learning environment where they can practice their skills effectively. It is time to use MentalUP to enable your kid to reach their learning and developmental goals! ๐
