Best Learning Apps for Kids Ages 3 and Up
Finding the right learning apps for young children can be overwhelming, but parents and educators have identified some of the best options that combine fun and education. These apps focus on foundational skills such as numbers, letters, colors, and problem-solving through interactive games and engaging activities. Designed to keep young learners entertained while reinforcing important concepts, these apps ensure a screen-time experience that is both enjoyable and beneficial. The following list includes highly rated apps, as voted on by families, that help preschoolers develop early cognitive and motor skills in a safe, age-appropriate environment.
1
PBS Kids Games
278
41
A collection of over 100 games featuring beloved PBS Kids characters like Curious George, Elinor, Daniel Tiger, and more. Offers fun learning experiences across subjects like math, science, literacy, and social-emotional skills.
2-8 years
2
Khan Academy Kids
231
42
A comprehensive educational app covering math, reading, writing, and social-emotional learning. Features interactive books, animated videos, and engaging activities. Offers personalized learning paths and adaptive challenges. Completely free with no ads or subscriptions.
2-7 years
3
Starfall Learn to Read
225
40
A phonics-based reading app that introduces vowels, consonant blends, and early reading strategies. Uses engaging stories, songs, and interactive lessons to strengthen literacy development. Ideal for preschool and early elementary students.
3-7 years
4
Duolingo Learn to Read
211
30
A literacy-focused app from Duolingo that introduces young learners to letters, phonics, and early reading skills. Features interactive lessons, guided pronunciation practice, and engaging stories to build reading confidence.
3-6 years
5
Caterpillar Play School
189
28
An educational app based on the beloved Very Hungry Caterpillar book. Teaches foundational preschool skills such as numbers, colors, shapes, and problem-solving through interactive games and creative activities. Uses bright visuals and gentle animations to engage young learners.
2-5 years
6
Preschool Kids Learning Games
170
25
A collection of mini-games designed to teach ABCs, numbers, colors, shapes, and basic problem-solving. Features voice narration and interactive animations to keep young learners engaged. Ideal for early preschool education.
3-5 years
7
ABC Spelling – Spell & Phonics
142
25
Helps kids improve spelling and phonics skills through interactive word-building activities. Features three game modes: Fill in the Blank, Match the Word, and Word Scramble. Uses visuals and audio reinforcement to enhance retention.
3-6 years
8
Math Kids – Add, Subtract, Count
101
16
A beginner math app covering number recognition, counting, basic addition, and subtraction. Features quizzes, puzzles, and practice exercises to build foundational math skills. Tracks progress and adapts to the child's level.
3-6 years
9
Moose Math – Duck Duck Moose
65
7
A playful math app teaching counting, addition, subtraction, and early geometry through engaging activities. Kids earn rewards by solving problems and building their own city. Aligned with Common Core math standards.
3-7 years
10
PBS Kids Video
56
6
Provides access to full episodes of PBS Kids' most popular TV shows. Offers a variety of educational content that encourages learning through storytelling and character-driven adventures.
2-8 years
11
Sight Words Reading Games ABC
49
8
Focuses on teaching high-frequency sight words through engaging mini-games that improve reading fluency. Features fun characters and interactive challenges to make learning enjoyable. Covers Dolch sight word lists.
3-6 years
12
Sesame Street – Family Play
46
7
Offers a variety of games and activities that encourage physical play and learning. Features characters from Sesame Street, with games designed to help kids learn shapes, colors, numbers, and more.
2-5 years
13
Preschool Baby Learning Games
39
6
Designed for toddlers and preschoolers, this app features colorful and engaging activities that teach letters, numbers, shapes, and colors. Uses playful animations and sounds to keep kids entertained while learning.
2-5 years
14
Starfall ABCs
25
4
Designed to help young children recognize letters, learn phonics, and understand letter sounds. Uses interactive animations, songs, and activities to reinforce early literacy skills. Ideal for preschool and kindergarten learning.
2-5 years
15
Play and Learn Science
23
4
Encourages scientific exploration with hands-on activities and games that cover topics like weather, physics, and environmental science. Includes real-world experiments that parents and kids can do together to enhance learning.
3-6 years