The leading app stores of both – Apple and Google contain thousands of apps that are developed specifically for children.
From games and puzzles to improving literacy and math – the parents of the new generation are often spoiled for choices, especially with more apps appearing each month.
In fact, a recent survey reveals that 43% of parents agree to need help in finding suitable apps for their children.
Moreover, parents are also wary of the internet activity of their children and cautious of them using inappropriate or spam apps. Such misuse, of the internet and mobile apps, is prevalent in children who are in their pre-teen years.
Besides knowing that the parents have kept an eye on their time limits, it is also critical for them to understand their parents’ expectations regarding respectable and responsible online behavior.
In light of this, we have put together a list of apps that are both – educational and fun.
These apps listed in no particular order are ideal for 10-year-old children and will ensure that they get the most out of their screen time and you get the peace of mind you deserve.
1. Marble Math
Marble math is a fun, educational game for older-elementary kids. The game allows children to select their level and preferred playing module.
Parents and children can also customize mathematical skills that they wish to reinforce such as division, fractions, or decimals.
The aim of the app is to move the game piece (marble) around the maze and avoid obstacles by answering as many questions as possible.
According to the previous users, the game is very addicting, and most children become so engrossed that they forget that they are polishing their mathematical skills from the game.
Price: $2.99
Platform: Android, iPad, iPhone, kindle fire, Fire touc
2. Project Noah
Children of today have a completely different lifestyle than that of their parents and grandparents. Often parents also complain that their child spends more time indoors with their electronic devices than outside as they used to do in their time.
The app Project Noah is ideal for those parents who worry about their children staying indoors more.
The primary objective of Project Noah is to send the children out in the open and share pictures of the wildlife they see. If the children are aware of the name and other information of the species, they can also include them in the photos.
If not, then other users are always willing to help out.
Since the app is open to global users, the app is a great way to build knowledge regarding wildlife and plants from different parts of the world.
Price: Free
Platform: iPhone, iPad, Android
3. Monkey stick crossing
Monkey stick crossing is a game that is strictly developed for entertainment purpose. The game aims to guide monkeys from tree to tree by growing sticks of the correct length. \
However, if the rod is too long or too short, the monkeys can fall resulting in negative scoring.
The game is easy to play, and the tutorial included in the app does a great job of explaining the controls to the young children. Luckily, the game is free to download.
However, in-app purchases are available that will enable the game players to unlock new monkeys and improve their score. The players can also share their rankings with their friends through social media and invite them to play along as well.
Price: Free
Platform: iPhone, iPad, Android
4. Big Barn World
The Big Barn World by AirG is another game that is solely created for entertainment purpose. As per the title, the game focuses on the user’s ability to take care of a virtual farm.
The users can name their farm, grow crops, and adopt different farm animals.
Moreover, the game gives the pre-teens a chance to get a taste of social media. Yes, you can socialize with anyone who is playing this game and exchange pets, crops, and even show off your thriving farm.
The reviews of the Big Barn World also suggest that the AirG spam less game is ideal for young children. Not only will the children remain occupied for some while but also learn a few farming skills in-between.
Price: Free
Platform: Android and Apple
5. Vocabulary spelling city
Many kids have trouble with spelling and vocabulary. Making learning spelling and sharpening vocabulary fun can enhance children’s learning experience and enable them to increase their knowledge.
The app Vocabulary Spelling City encourages the children to learn new words through different games like Word Scramble and Hang the mouse.
The parents can also upload a customized spelling list on the app’s website allowing the children to learn the specific vocabulary instead of the app’s popular one.
The game is ideal for children above the age of six while both free and paid versions are available.
Price: Free for the basic version
Platform: Android, iPad, iPhone
Bonus app – Checky
Just as you would limit sugar for your children, it is essential that designated time be assigned for the use of technology.
Since it might be challenging to childproof the smartphone of your pre-teen, consider installing apps such as Checky to keep track of their mobile usage.
The users can also compare their mobile interaction with friends and family members along with setting milestones.
The Checky app is free to download on both the platforms – Android and Apple App Store.
Final thoughts
The children of today live in an increasingly digital world, and it is impossible to eradicate screen time for any of them, regardless of their age.
On the contrary, parents also agree to the importance of technology and claim that mobile apps certainly aid in enhancing their children’s reading and mathematical skills.
However, to avoid the inappropriate use and foster their learning, make use of the apps listed above. Good luck!
About the Author:
Alma Causey is a Freelance writer by day and sports fan by night. She writes about tech education and health related issues. Live simply, give generously, watch football and a technology lover.