Our Top 5 Must-Have Learning Apps for Kids This Summer
Whether you're road-tripping, poolside, or navigating a chaotic summer schedule—screens can be used for good! We’ve rounded up our favorite kid-approved, parent-endorsed educational apps to keep those minds active on the go.
1. Khan Academy Kids (Ages 2–8)
Why we love it:
This award-winning app offers free, ad-free content across reading, math, logic, social-emotional learning, and even creative arts. The interface is kid-friendly and features adorable characters that guide your child through playful, engaging lessons.
Aligned with Common Core Standards
Builds early literacy and number sense
Great for independent learning or with a parent
Best for: Pre-K through 2nd grade learners who thrive with visual and auditory learning.
2. Duolingo ABC (Ages 3–7)
Why we love it:
From the makers of the world-famous Duolingo app, this version is tailored specifically for early readers. With fun animations and interactive letters and phonics games, Duolingo ABC makes learning to read feel like a game.
Covers letter sounds, sight words, reading fluency
Short, bite-sized lessons perfect for on-the-go learning
No ads, no subscription required
Best for: Young learners who are just starting to read or need extra phonics practice.
3. Prodigy Math Game (Grades 1–6)
Why we love it:
This fantasy-style game turns math practice into an epic quest. Kids battle monsters and earn rewards—only if they solve math problems correctly. It's one of the best ways to sneak in extra math skills without a fight.
Adaptive curriculum that adjusts to your child’s level
Covers math skills from addition to fractions and geometry
Free version available, with optional premium features
Best for: Elementary students who love games and need motivation to practice math.
4. Brainscape (Grades 4+)
Why we love it:
This isn’t just another flashcard app. Brainscape uses spaced repetition and cognitive science to help kids (and adults!) learn faster and retain more. Perfect for vocabulary, geography, history facts, and even foreign languages.
Create your own flashcards or choose from thousands of expert decks
Tracks learning progress with data
Great for test prep and older learners
Best for: Middle to high school students who need structured study time in short bursts.
5. Toca Life World (Creative Ages 4–10)
Why we love it:
While not strictly academic, this open-ended storytelling app fosters creativity, social-emotional learning, and problem-solving. Kids build their own worlds, create characters, and act out scenarios. It’s a digital dollhouse with endless possibilities.
No rules, no pressure—just imaginative play
Encourages storytelling and sequencing
Integrates themes like friendship, emotions, and community
Best for: Creative kids who thrive in unstructured, play-based learning environments.
Final Tip: Learning Can Happen Anywhere
Download a few of these before your next family outing. You’ll be amazed at how 15–20 minutes a day can keep kids sharp—and maybe even excited to “play” their learning apps.
Let us know if you want app-specific learning plans or more tech-based learning ideas personalized for your child.
Reach out anytime—we’re here to help make learning joyful and effective, all summer long!
