Apps for Kids: Safe Learning and Usage Tips

Fun Learning: The Best Apps for Kids and Their Benefits

The use of mobile devices is increasingly common in childhood, and apps for children have become valuable tools to promote learning, stimulate creativity and even encourage the development of motor and emotional skills.

However, choosing the right app requires careful consideration to ensure it is safe, age-appropriate, and offers quality content.

In this article, we explore the universe of apps for kids, covering everything from educational benefits to practical tips for selecting the ideal app.

In addition, we will present some of the best app options available for each age group and goal. Follow along to discover how technology can contribute to child development in a safe and fun way!

What Are Apps for Kids and How Do They Help Their Development?

Apps for kids are applications specifically designed to stimulate learning and development at an early age. They include playful activities, educational games and interactive features that facilitate the development of cognitive, social and motor skills in an engaging and fun way.

These apps can be used to support school learning, reinforce specific skills like math and literacy, and even introduce skills like logical thinking and problem-solving.

Additionally, many apps also offer content for emotional development and social skills, helping children explore their emotions in a safe way.

Benefits of Educational Apps for Child Development

Apps for kids, especially those with an educational focus, have several benefits when used in moderation and with proper guidance. Here are some of the main benefits:

1. Encouraging Playful Learning: By combining learning and fun, these apps help children assimilate concepts in a light and natural way, keeping them engaged and curious.
2. Motor Skills Development: Many apps require tapping and flicking, which can help kids develop fine motor skills.
3. Encouraging Logical and Creative Thinking: Logic and problem-solving applications stimulate skills such as logical reasoning, creativity and autonomy to face challenges.
4. Introduction to Responsible Use of Technology: With moderate and monitored use, these apps can teach children how to use technology productively and responsibly from an early age.
5. Tutoring and Academic Skills: Math, reading and language apps help to consolidate the content learned at school and reinforce important skills for academic performance.

Criteria for Choosing Safe and Age-Appropriate Apps

Choosing a children’s app involves much more than evaluating its content. Here are some tips for selecting the right app:

• Check the Recommended Age Range: The app’s content and activities should be age-appropriate. Make sure the app is designed for the right age group and that the design is accessible to them.
• Prioritize Ad-Free Apps: Advertising can be distracting and even dangerous for young children. Opt for apps that offer paid or ad-free versions.
• Read Reviews from Other Parents and Experts: Reading reviews and ratings from other parents and experts can help you identify whether the app is trustworthy and educational.
• Check Parental Control Features: Many apps for kids offer parental controls, limiting usage time and monitoring the content accessed.
• Make Sure You Respect Privacy: Choose apps that follow safety practices and protect your child’s data. This includes complying with privacy regulations like COPPA (in the United States).

Top Educational Apps for Kids

Here are some of the best educational apps for kids, divided into learning and entertainment categories:

1. Khan Academy Kids

THE Khan Academy Kids is an extension of the renowned Khan Academy website, aimed at young children. The app offers free, highly interactive content covering topics such as reading, math, art, and social skills.

Features:

• Educational content with activities to develop academic and social skills.
• Fun and easy-to-use interface, with characters that accompany learning.
• Completely free and ad-free.

Ideal for preschool and elementary school-aged children, Khan Academy Kids offers a complete educational experience that can be used at home or to supplement learning at school.

2. ABCmouse

ABCmouse is a comprehensive learning app aimed at children ages 2-8, with content covering reading, math, science, and art. It offers a variety of activities and games that encourage learning in an engaging way.

Features:

• Complete curriculum with varied topics, such as reading and mathematics.
• Educational games, activities and songs.
• Progression structure that allows the child to advance as they learn new concepts.

It's a great option for families looking for a complete and progressive educational app.

3. Play Mouth

THE Play Mouth is a very popular app for kids, offering a range of creative and educational apps, such as Toca Kitchen and Toca Life. The app focuses on creativity and exploration, providing safe environments where children can experiment and imagine.

Features:

• Themed apps, from cooking to fashion design.
• Safe environments to explore creativity and build stories.
• Ad-free experience.

Perfect for stimulating imagination, Toca Boca is ideal for young children and pre-teens who want to explore their creativity.

Apps to Stimulate Creativity and Logical Thinking

To encourage children's creativity and logical reasoning, some apps have been specially developed to offer activities that work on these skills:

1. Draw & Tell

Draw & Tell is a creative app that lets kids draw, tell stories, and record their creations. With different drawing tools, the app offers a fun way to stimulate creativity and communication.

Features:

• Drawing and story creation tools.
• Option to record narrations along with the drawing.
• Collage and coloring activities.

It is recommended for young children who like to draw and tell their stories.

2. Lightbot

THE Lightbot is an application that teaches the basic principles of programming in a fun and intuitive way. In it, the child guides a robot through different levels, solving puzzles using programming commands.

Features:

• Games and puzzles to teach programming logic.
• Child-friendly and intuitive interface.
• Different levels of challenge that help develop logical thinking.

Ideal for introducing computational thinking and programming logic in a playful way.

Literacy and Reading Skills Apps

These apps help kids develop reading and writing skills:

1. Endless Alphabet

THE Endless Alphabet is an app that uses fun and interactive characters to teach children new words, promoting the learning of the alphabet and vocabulary in an engaging way.

Features:

• Animated words and stories with interactive characters.
• Activities that reinforce vocabulary learning.
• Offline access, allowing use without internet.

Ideal for children who are learning to read and write, the app is educational and fun.

2. Magical Reading

THE Magic Reading is an application aimed at children who are beginning to read, with interactive activities that work on everything from letters to sentences and short texts.

Features:

• Letter and word identification games.
• Simple stories that encourage reading.
• Phonetics exercises to improve pronunciation.

This app is ideal for stimulating interest and the development of reading at an early stage.

Apps to Learn Math and Logical Reasoning

Math and logical reasoning are fundamental skills for children’s cognitive development. Fortunately, there are many apps that make learning math fun, interactive and challenging, encouraging children to solve problems and develop logical thinking.

These apps, often gamified, help introduce mathematical concepts such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and problem solving in a fun and engaging way.

1. Math Kids

THE Math Kids is a free app for young children that focuses on basic math concepts like counting, addition, and subtraction.

It offers interactive activities and games that encourage learning in a fun way, making it ideal for preschool children.

Main Features:

• Counting, comparison and problem-solving games.
• Addition and subtraction activities for beginners.
• Positive and motivational feedback to engage children.

Math Kids is perfect for introducing children to the first concepts of mathematics, preparing them for elementary school.

2. Prodigy Math Game

Prodigy is a math game inspired by RPGs, where kids solve problems to advance in the game. Ideal for slightly older children, the app covers a wide range of math topics, from basic operations to more advanced concepts.

Main Features:

• Mathematical questions integrated into the game's plot, which motivate learning.
• Adjustable difficulty levels as the child progresses.
• Content aligned with the school curriculum, facilitating the application of learning.

Prodigy is ideal for elementary school children and makes math practice exciting by mixing education with fun.

3. DragonBox

THE DragonBox is a set of math games that teaches algebra and math concepts in an intuitive way.

The games are designed for children aged 4 to 12, and each app in the DragonBox series addresses a specific age range and level of complexity.

Main Features:

• Games that introduce concepts of algebra and equation solving.
• Intuitive interface that teaches math without the need for complex explanations.
• Gamified fun that keeps kids engaged with more advanced topics.

DragonBox is recommended for those looking to introduce concepts of algebra and mathematical logic in a fun and accessible way for children.

Language Learning Apps for Kids

Learning a new language is a skill that can benefit children for life, and apps make it fun and interactive.

Language apps for kids use games, songs and activities to teach basic vocabulary and first phrases in a new language, allowing them to learn in a fun way and at their own pace.

1. Duolingo Kids

THE Duolingo Kids is the kids' version of the popular language learning app, Duolingo. Aimed at children aged 4 and up, it offers basic language lessons in a fun format full of illustrations and games to keep little ones interested.

Main Features:

• Short and fun classes, with vocabulary activities and basic phrases.
• Learning languages such as English, Spanish and French.
• Rewards and achievements system to keep you motivated.

Duolingo Kids is ideal for introducing children to learning a second language in an interactive and simple way.

2. Lingokids

THE Lingokids is an educational app that teaches English to children through fun activities and interactive games. The app is designed for children of different ages, with content that varies according to the child's progress and level.

Main Features:

• Vocabulary, number, color and shape games and activities.
• Basic grammar activities, such as forming simple sentences.
• Interactive characters that guide the child in learning.

Lingokids is ideal for children who are just starting to learn English and want an interactive and educational app to develop vocabulary and comprehension.

3. Gus on the Go

Gus on the Go is an educational app that teaches basic vocabulary in over 30 languages, including English, Spanish, French, Mandarin, and more. It uses the storytelling of a friendly character, Gus, to guide children through learning activities.

Main Features:

• Vocabulary games and activities to consolidate learning.
• Variety of languages to choose from, allowing you to explore different languages.
• Colorful animations and graphics to attract children's interest.

Gus on the Go is an excellent option for children who are curious about different languages and cultures, providing basic and interactive learning.

Apps for Physical Activity and Movement

With the increased use of digital devices, it is essential to encourage a balance between screen time and physical activity.

Apps focused on physical activity and movement can help integrate exercise and active play into children's routines in a fun and interactive way.

These apps encourage children to move and explore their bodies, promoting motor development, physical well-being and energy expenditure.

Here are some suggestions for fitness and movement apps that help make exercise fun:

1. GoNoodle Kids

THE GoNoodle Kids is an app that offers a series of interactive videos with physical activities for children. It includes dances, movement games and light exercises, designed to promote physical and mental well-being, as well as increase focus and concentration.

The videos are short and engaging, and many of them use fun music and choreography, ideal for motivating children to move.

Main Features:

• Dance, yoga, aerobic exercise and stretching videos.
• Activities that stimulate both body and mind.
• Safe, kid-friendly content made by child development experts.

GoNoodle Kids is a great choice for turning screen time into movement time, helping kids develop healthy habits while having fun.

2. Just Dance Now

THE Just Dance Now Just Dance is the mobile version of the famous dance game Just Dance. With it, children can choose their favorite songs and follow the choreography, following the movements on the screen. It is a great option to burn energy and encourage movement, and is especially fun for children who like music and dance.

Main Features:

• Popular songs and fun choreography, with new releases frequently.
• Dynamic and high-energy physical activities.
• Friendly and easy-to-use interface, encouraging family movement.

Just Dance Now is ideal for stimulating motor coordination, rhythm and body expression, being a fun option for children of all ages.

3. Super Stretch Yoga

THE Super Stretch Yoga teaches yoga poses to children in a simple and visual way, encouraging relaxation and connection with the body.

The app uses animations and an animated character to guide children through the poses, helping them become familiar with stretching and breathing movements.

Main Features:

• Yoga postures explained in a simple and illustrative way.
• Animations and videos that make learning engaging.
• Exercises that promote flexibility, strength and concentration.

Super Stretch Yoga is ideal for introducing the practice of yoga in a light and fun way, helping children develop body awareness and breath control.

4. Sworkit Kids

THE Sworkit Kids is an app focused on quick and easy physical exercises, developed especially for children.

It offers a variety of activities, such as stretching, balance and strength movements. Each activity is explained in a simple way, with the aim of stimulating movement and motor coordination.

Main Features:

• Short-duration exercises such as jumping, stretching and balancing postures.
• Kid-friendly interface with clear videos and instructions.
• Activity options to develop strength, flexibility and endurance.

Ideal for children with busy schedules, Sworkit Kids allows you to fit quick and effective physical activities into your daily routine.

5. Pokémon GO

Although it is not a specifically children's app, Pokémon GO is an excellent incentive for movement. The game uses augmented reality technology and invites children to walk around the real environment to capture Pokémon.

It is safe for accompanied children and encourages exploration, interaction with the outdoors and energy expenditure.

Main Features:

• Pokémon hunting in real locations, encouraging walking and exploration.
• Activities that can be carried out in parks and outdoor environments.
• Use of augmented reality to integrate the digital world with the physical environment.

Pokémon GO is ideal for encouraging outdoor exercise, promoting movement in a fun and interactive way.

How to Control Screen Time with Parental Control Apps

Parental control apps are a great way for parents to manage their children’s screen time and help them establish healthy limits on screen time. Here are some practical ways to use these tools:

1. Set Daily Time Limits

Most parental control apps, such as Google Family Link and the Qustodio, allows parents to determine a maximum daily usage time for each application or for the device as a whole. This helps to limit screen time in a simple way that adapts to the child's routine.

2. Establish Permitted Usage Times

In addition to daily limits, some apps allow you to set specific usage times. With the Apple Screen Time, for example, parents can set a “Bedtime” setting, blocking the device at inappropriate times, such as during mealtimes or at night.

3. Restrict Inappropriate Apps and Content

Applications like Net Nanny and the Norton Family allow you to block specific apps or limit access to age-inappropriate content. This provides a safer digital environment geared toward learning and healthy entertainment.

4. Monitor Activity with Usage Reports

Tools like Qustodio and the Bark provide reports on device usage, detailing the time spent on each app and the most frequent activities. These reports help parents identify usage patterns and adjust limits, promoting a healthy balance.

5. Dialogue and Encourage Self-Discipline

Talk to your child about screen time limits and the importance of balancing screen time with other activities. This helps build a conscious and responsible relationship with technology.

Safety and Privacy in Kids' Apps

When choosing apps for kids, security and privacy are key to ensuring a healthy digital experience. Here are some important tips for protecting your little one’s data:

1. Check Compliance with Children’s Privacy Regulations

Look for apps that follow privacy regulations like COPPA (in the US) or the GDPR (in the EU), ensuring that data collection is minimal and safe for children.

2. Choose apps without advertising or with controlled advertising

Avoid apps with inappropriate ads that can direct children to external websites. Opt for paid or ad-free versions for a safer environment.

3. Read the App Privacy Policy

The privacy policy should clarify how children’s data is used and whether it is shared. Opt for apps that collect only what is necessary and do not share information with third parties.

4. Limit Personal Information

Only allow the app to collect essential information, such as age or a pseudonym. Avoid apps that request location or other sensitive data, especially for young children.

5. Use Apps with Parental Controls

Choose apps with parental control settings that allow you to limit screen time, block purchases, and monitor your child's activities.

6. Use Additional Parental Control Apps

For additional monitoring, apps like Google Family Link and Qustodio allow parents to manage children's access, monitor screen time, and restrict content.

7. Avoid Apps with Chat and Social Networking Functions

Social media and chat can pose risks to young children. Choose apps that don't involve interaction with other users, or check for moderation and options to limit contact.

Conclusion

Apps for kids offer an engaging and educational way to develop skills and promote learning in a fun and safe way. By choosing the right app,

Parents can ensure a positive and balanced experience that contributes to the development and well-being of children.