Apps for fun and learning

Our kids are growing up in a moment of heightened technology where information is everywhere and they will have to be computer literate on top of every other skill. In our home we recognize this importance but also limit it's effect on our, still young, sons. We have a hard rule that TV time is only for 30 minutes or so per day and only at the end of the day when we are all tired and it's dark outside! An alternative to TV time is now App time. There are some great free or low cost apps that can really help children to consolidate skills they have learnt or work on new ones. Both boys enjoy the apps we hand pick for them and so far it has been a very positive addition to our learning environment.

Maths apps: We are using three apps and the boys decide which they prefer each day although Maths 3-5 is a strong favorite lately. Maths 3-5, Maths 4-6 and Toddler Numbers
(all the apps will be listed at the bottom of this post with affiliate links).

We use DinoChess to play (or learn to play) chess. This is a lot of fun and as it is self learning (the pieces cannot move to other squares) they are gaining the basic rules of chess :)

For coding we use Lightbot Hour and Kodable. We also have ScrathJr but it is more game than coding.

We use Eggy words for reading. This is a sight word app and both boys enjoy catching eggs and splatting them too!

Our little treasure is My Incredible Body. A sure favorite and one that always ends app time on a high!

We also have BrainPop Jr as it often has interesting videos (a free video is released every Monday).

App time has proven to be a rich experience so we hope you like our list and if you have any suggestions, please let us know below.