The Best Educational Apps, Games and TV Shows
We’ve curated a selection of the best screen-based and screen-free educational tools to keep your children’s minds sharp during isolation…
Wondering how you’ll keep your children occupied during COVID-19 and make sure they’re not falling behind in their studies? We know the feeling.
You’ve gone for a walk, done the homework that was sent home by your school, had a snack, built a magnetic tile tower, done some yoga… and it’s only 11am. Sigh.
Fear not, brave homeschooling warriors! Our round-up of the best educational apps, games and TV shows will have the whole family wondering, “Where did the day go?”
The Best Educational Apps
Here are some of the best educational apps that your child can use on a phone or tablet. The age ratings are those determined by Common Sense Media.
-
ABCmouse.com
This award-winning app was created by teachers and features over 10,000 learning activities that cover reading, math, art, music and more. Best of all, kids love it!
Ages: 3 to 8
Cost: Free 30-day trial, then $9.95/month
Available on: iOS, Android and the Amazon App Store
-
DragonBox
The DragonBox series is made up of five apps that teach math fundamentals (numbers, big numbers, algebra and geometry) in fun and engaging ways.
Ages: 4 to 12+
Cost: $4.99 to $7.99 per app
Available on: iOS, Android and the Amazon App Store
-
Khan Academy
Khan Academy offers a huge database of video tutorials in math, science, humanities and more. And it’s free!
Ages: 5+
Cost: Free
Available on: iOS, Android and the Amazon App Store
-
PBS Kids Games
With more than 25 educational games featuring characters from PBS Kids shows (including Daniel Tiger, Arthur and Super Why!), this app is a kid-pleaser.
Ages: 3+
Cost: Free
Available on: iOS, Android and the Amazon App Store
-
Duolingo
Have you always wanted to teach your child a second language? There’s never been a better time! Duolingo offers lessons in French, Spanish, German, Swahili and many more.
Ages: 11+ (but some younger children may be ready to use it)
Cost: Free
The Best Educational Games
Searching for screen-free games that will boost your child’s development? Look no further!
Shapes Memory Game
This 20-piece shape-themed memory game supports cognitive development and enhances hand-eye coordination. Ages 3 and up.
Modern Blocks Shapes Memory Game
$35
Pinball
Pinball encourages logic, problem-solving, concentration, language and social skills. But kids won’t notice they’re learning because it’s so much fun! Ages 3 and up.
PlanToys Pinball
$100
This fast-paced game requires players to place a card in their funny glasses and try to guess what’s on it by asking a series of questions. Am I an animal? Do I make noise? Laughter guaranteed! Ages 4 to 8.
$16
Petit Collage’s 100-piece puzzle enhances cognitive skills, problem-solving, fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. And there are hidden objects to discover with magic decoder masks! Ages 4 and up.
Petit Collage Monster Jam Decoder Puzzle
$18
The Best Educational TV Shows
These wonderful shows have been proven to teach children new skills and enrich their development.
Sesame Street
The beloved Sesame Street characters have been teaching young children reading and early literacy skills for over 50 years. Research has shown that watching the show improves children’s performance at school. Ages 2 and up.
Ask the Storybots
Friendly bots discover the answers to children’s big questions such as “Why is the sky blue?” Common Sense Media highly recommends this show. Ages 3 and up.
Daniel Tiger’s Neighbourhood
Four-year-old Daniel Tiger teaches children social, interpersonal and pre-literacy skills. Kids can’t get enough! Ages 3 and up.
Arthur
Arthur is an eight-year-old aardvark. His adventures have been shown to teach kids advanced perspective-taking and moral reasoning skills. The show has also been commended for featuring progressive topics such same-sex marriage. Ages 5 and up.
PEG + CAT
Peg is a little girl who solves math problems with her cat and the show has been found to improve critical early math skills. Ages 3 and up.
Super Why!
The creators of Super Why! – which features storybook characters with superhero alter egos – worked with the National Reading Panel to ensure the show would improve children’s literacy skills.
Stuck inside?
- Check out 10 activities to keep your kids sane while social distancing and How to structure your day when in isolation.
- In light of widespread school closures, Montessori Educator, Christina Clemer shares two lesson plans to help you encourage your child’s learning at home.
