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.

best iPad apps for kids

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.

best kids apps for ipad
Notable Features:
  • Price: Free
  • Best for kids aged 3 to 6
  • Support available: Email and help center
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best educational apps for ipad for kids

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. Donโ€™t forget that it is available on any PC, tablet, or smartphone. So your children can use it anytime and anywhere. ๐ŸŽฎ

Also, you can benefit from MentalUPโ€™s rich performance-tracking and reporting tools to track your kids' progress and development. So what are you waiting for? ๐Ÿš€

Give your child the ultimate gift of cognitive and physical development with MentalUP today. Let's make learning fun and exciting for your child. ๐ŸŽ

GET STARTED

Notable Features:
  • Price: Regional price
  • Best for kids of all ages
  • Support available: Email and help center
The app is available on:
MentalUP Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best apps for kids ipad
Notable Features:
  • Price: Free
  • Best for kids aged 8 to 12
  • Support available: Email
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best free educational apps for kids ipad
Notable Features:
  • Price: Free with in-app purchases
  • Best for kids aged 6 to 12
  • Support available: Email
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best apps for ipad kids
Notable Features:
  • Price: $3.99
  • Best for kids aged 2 to 5
  • Support available: Email
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best creative apps for kids on ipad
Notable Features:
  • Price: Free with in-app purchases
  • Best for kids of all ages
  • Support available: Email
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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, this alternative which is one of the best apps for schools, provides kids with an engaging learning experience with interactive games, stories, and songs that are designed to make learning fun.

best ipad apps to read for kids
Notable Features:
  • Price: Free with in-app purchases
  • Best for kids aged 2 to 8
  • Support available: Help center
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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. ๐Ÿ‘

You donโ€™t 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. โœจ

GIVE MENTALUP A TRY

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.

best apps for kids on the ipad
Notable Features:
  • Price: $3.99
  • Best for kids aged 4 to 8
  • Support available: In-app support
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best educational apps for ipad for kids
Notable Features:
  • Price: Free with in-app purchases
  • Best for kids of all ages
  • Support available: Help center
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best ipad apps for puzzles kids
Notable Features:
  • Price: $2.99
  • Best for kids aged 2 to 8
  • Support available: Email
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best free ipad apps for kids
Notable Features:
  • Price: Free
  • Suitable for kids of all ages
  • Support available: Email and in-app support
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best educational apps for kids on ipad
Notable Features:
  • Price: Free with in-app purchases
  • Best for kids aged 5 to 18
  • Support available: Email
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best ipad gaming apps for kids
Notable Features:
  • Price: Free with in-app purchases
  • Best for kids aged 4 to 8
  • Support available: Email
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best apps for kids ipad.
Notable Features:
  • Price: $3.99
  • Best for kids aged 2 to 5
  • Support available: Email
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best apps for ipad kids
Notable Features:
  • Price: $2.99
  • Best for kids aged 3 to 6
  • Support available: Email
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best ipad apps for autistic kids
Notable Features:
  • Price: Free with in-app purchases
  • Best for kids aged 3 years old and up
  • Support available: Email
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best ipad drawing apps for kids

It also accelerates the development of kids' fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination by requiring them to use touch-and-drag movements.

Notable Features:
  • Price: Free with in-app purchases
  • Best for kids aged 6 years and up
  • Support available: Email and help center
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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.

best ipad apps for kids with autism
Notable Features:
  • Price: Free with in-app purchases
  • Best for kids aged 2 to 8 years old
  • Support available: Email and in-app support
The app is available on:
Pros & Cons
What we like What we donโ€™t 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! ๐Ÿ‘ช

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. ๐Ÿ‘

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. ๐Ÿ†

PLAY & LEARN WITH MENTALUP

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 โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
X In-app purchases
โœ“ Performance tracking
โœ“ Great for linguistic skills
MentalUP Brain Games Regional price โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
X In-app purchases
โœ“ Performance tracking
โœ“ Personalized learning experience
โœ“ Great for both cognitive and physical development
OLogy: Science for Kids Free โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
X In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Wide range of science topics
โœ“ Great for curiosity and critical thinking
Toca Life World: Build a Story Free with in-app purchases โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
โœ“ In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Open-ended play experience
โœ“ Great for creativity and imagination
Sago Mini Friends $3.99 โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
X In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Interactive play experience
โœ“ Great for social and emotional development
Zen Studio - Meditation for Kids Free with in-app purchases โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
โœ“ In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Encourages creativity and imagination
โœ“ Wide range of colors and tools
HOMER: Fun Learning For Kids Free with in-app purchases โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
โœ“ In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Personalized learning experience
โœ“ Wide range of activities
Trace it, Try it $3.99 โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
X In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Great for fine motor skills
โœ“ Wide range of activities and writing exercises
PBS KIDS Video Free with in-app purchases โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
โœ“ In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Offline and online modes
โœ“ Wide range of educational content
Bugs and Buttons $2.99 โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
X In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Great for cognitive and fine motor skills
โœ“ Intriguing graphics
WWF Together Free โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
X In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Helps children learn about wildlife and conservation
Tynker: Coding for Kids Free with in-app purchases X Child-safe/No in-app ads
โœ“ In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Great for improving coding skills
PJ Masks: Moonlight Heroes Free with in-app purchases โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
โœ“ In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Great for entertainment
โœ“ Engaging and interactive gaming experience
Petting Zoo $3.99 โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
X In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Intuitive and easy-to-use interface
โœ“ Encourages creativity and exploration
Dumb Ways JR $2.99 โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
X In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Great for teaching kids about food
โœ“ Fun and educational
Leeloo AAC Free with in-app purchases โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
โœ“ In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Promotes communication and social skills
โœ“ Engaging and interactive interface
Tayasui Sketches Free with in-app purchases X Child-safe/No in-app ads
โœ“ In-app purchases
X Performance tracking
โœ“ Great for creativity and artistic skills
โœ“ Wide range of drawing tools
Kids Autism Games - AutiSpark Free with in-app purchases โœ“ Child-safe/No in-app ads
โœ“ In-app purchases
โœ“ Performance tracking
โœ“ Great for social, communication, and emotional regulation skills
โœ“ 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, letโ€™s 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 kidโ€™s 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 kidโ€™s 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. ๐ŸŽ‰

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! ๐ŸŽ“

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