Finding the right educational app for your child can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. As parents, we want something that actually teaches our kids—not just another screen full of mindless videos or repetitive games. There are plenty of so-called “educational” apps out there, but many of them do little more than keep kids busy. The best learning apps should spark curiosity, build skills, and make learning fun. After a lot of trial and error, here are five standout educational apps that actually do what they promise. These apps are engaging, effective, and—most importantly—ones your kids will actually enjoy using.
5. PBS Kids Games
Available on: iOS, Android
Price: Free
If your child loves PBS shows, this app is a no-brainer. PBS Kids Games brings all their favorite characters—like Daniel Tiger, Elmo, and the Wild Kratts—into a huge collection of interactive learning games. Covering subjects like reading, math, science, and problem-solving, the app makes learning feel like an extension of their favorite TV shows. Instead of just watching, kids get to actively engage with the material through fun, well-designed mini-games.
One of the best things about PBS Kids Games is that it’s completely free—no ads, no in-app purchases, just solid educational content. It also works offline, which is a lifesaver on long car rides or when Wi-Fi isn’t available. While it doesn’t follow a structured curriculum, it’s perfect for casual, on-the-go learning. If you’re looking for a fun, low-pressure way to reinforce educational skills, this app is a solid choice.
Learn More: PBS Kids Games
4. Endless Alphabet
Available on: iOS, Android
Price: Free trial; $8.99 full version
If you have a preschooler or early reader, Endless Alphabet is a fantastic way to introduce letters and words in a way that actually sticks. Instead of dry, repetitive drills, kids get to play with interactive word puzzles. They drag animated letters into place while listening to their sounds, reinforcing phonics and spelling in a way that feels more like a game than a lesson.
What makes this app stand out is its focus on vocabulary expansion. It goes beyond just teaching letters—it introduces kids to a wide range of words with fun animations that bring each meaning to life. The downside? The free version is limited, and the full version isn’t cheap. But if you’re looking for an ad-free, high-quality literacy app, it’s definitely worth considering.
Learn More: Endless Alphabet (by Originator)
3. Duolingo ABC
Available on: iOS, Android, Amazon
Price: Free
Duolingo is best known for teaching languages, but Duolingo ABC is specifically designed to help young kids learn to read. It’s packed with bite-sized lessons, interactive stories, and simple exercises to build phonics, sight words, and sentence structure. The app adjusts as your child progresses, keeping things challenging but not frustrating.
One of the best parts of Duolingo ABC is that it’s 100% free—no ads, no paid upgrades. It also offers a structured approach to reading, making it a great tool for early learners. The playful design and engaging activities keep kids motivated, and because lessons are short, it’s easy to fit learning into even the busiest days. If your child is just starting their reading journey, this is an excellent app to have in your toolkit.
Learn More: Duolingo ABC
2. ScratchJr
Available on: iOS, Android
Price: Free
If you want to introduce your child to coding without overwhelming them, ScratchJr is the perfect starting point. Designed for ages 5-7, it lets kids create their own interactive stories, animations, and mini-games using colorful coding blocks. There’s no complicated syntax or typing—just drag-and-drop commands that teach sequencing, logic, and problem-solving.
One of the best things about ScratchJr is that it doesn’t require reading skills, so even younger kids can jump in and start experimenting. It’s completely free with no ads, making it a great, risk-free way to get your child interested in coding. Whether your kid loves creating stories or just enjoys tinkering with technology, this app provides an engaging introduction to the world of programming.
Learn More: Scratch Jr.
1. Khan Academy Kids
Available on: iOS, Android, Amazon
Price: Free
Khan Academy Kids is hands-down one of the best free educational apps out there. It covers a wide range of subjects—math, reading, writing, problem-solving—and presents them in a way that feels fun and interactive. The app adapts to your child’s learning level, making sure they’re always challenged but never overwhelmed.
What really sets Khan Academy Kids apart is its quality and depth. There are no ads, no in-app purchases, and no paywalls—just a ton of engaging, well-structured learning activities. The offline mode is a huge bonus for parents on the go, letting kids continue learning in the car or anywhere without internet access. Whether your child is just starting to explore letters and numbers or ready for more advanced concepts, this app delivers both fun and meaningful learning experiences.
Learn More: Khan Academy Kids
These five apps prove that screen time doesn’t have to be a waste of time. Whether you’re looking to reinforce reading, introduce coding, or just give your child a productive way to play, these apps offer real educational value. Best of all, they’re designed to keep kids engaged without resorting to mindless entertainment. Finding the right learning tools can make all the difference, and with these apps, you can feel good about the time your child spends on their device.
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