Apps to keep kids thinking and learning even during school holidays

School holidays are an excellent time for kids to relax and unwind from their academic routines. However, it’s also crucial to keep their minds engaged and stimulated during this period to prevent the “summer slide” phenomenon, where children may lose some of the academic progress they’ve made during the school year. Fortunately, there are numerous educational apps available that make learning enjoyable and interactive. In this guide, we’ll explore a selection of apps designed to keep kids thinking and learning even during school holidays.

Khan Academy Kids: Khan Academy Kids is a fantastic app for preschool and early elementary school children. It offers a wide range of activities covering subjects such as math, reading, and social-emotional development. With its colorful interface and engaging characters, this app provides an interactive learning experience that keeps children entertained while they learn.

Duolingo: Duolingo is an excellent choice for older children who want to learn a new language or improve their proficiency in a language they’re already studying. With its gamified approach to language learning, Duolingo makes the process fun and addictive. Children can earn rewards for completing lessons and track their progress as they advance through various levels.

ScratchJr: ScratchJr is a programming app designed specifically for young children. It allows kids to create their own interactive stories and games by snapping together coding blocks. Through experimentation and creativity, children can learn fundamental concepts of computer programming in a playful and intuitive way.

DragonBox Math Apps: DragonBox offers a series of math apps that make learning math concepts enjoyable and accessible for children of all ages. Whether it’s basic arithmetic, algebra, or geometry, these apps use puzzles and games to teach mathematical concepts in a way that feels like play. By removing the intimidation factor often associated with math, DragonBox helps children build confidence and proficiency in mathematics.

Toca Boca Apps: Toca Boca offers a collection of imaginative and open-ended apps that encourage creativity and exploration. From running a virtual kitchen to designing a digital world, these apps provide endless opportunities for kids to engage their minds and express themselves. Toca Boca apps are particularly suitable for younger children but can be enjoyed by kids of all ages.

BrainPOP: BrainPOP offers educational videos and interactive quizzes on a wide range of topics, including science, social studies, English, math, and more. With its dynamic content and engaging animations, BrainPOP makes learning fun and accessible for children. The app also features games, activities, and experiments that allow kids to deepen their understanding of various subjects.

Prodigy Math Game: Prodigy Math Game combines math learning with adventure gaming to create an immersive educational experience. Children can explore a fantasy world, battle monsters, and cast spells—all while practicing math skills aligned with their grade level curriculum. Prodigy adapts to each child’s abilities, providing personalized feedback and support to help them succeed.

Epic! – Kids’ Books and Videos: Epic! is a digital library that offers thousands of high-quality books, audiobooks, and educational videos for children ages 12 and under. With content curated by educators, Epic! provides a safe and enriching environment for kids to discover new stories and explore various subjects. The app also features reading logs and quizzes to track children’s progress and comprehension.

ABCmouse.com: ABCmouse.com offers a comprehensive early learning curriculum covering reading, math, science, art, and music. With over 10,000 interactive activities, games, and videos, this app provides a structured yet engaging approach to early childhood education. ABCmouse.com is designed to adapt to each child’s learning pace and preferences, making it suitable for children at different skill levels.

Minecraft Education Edition: Minecraft Education Edition harnesses the popular game’s creative potential for educational purposes. With features specifically designed for classrooms, this app allows teachers to create immersive learning experiences across various subjects, from history to mathematics to computer science. Children can collaborate with classmates, solve challenges, and explore virtual worlds while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Conclusion: Incorporating educational apps into children’s routines during school holidays can help keep their minds active and engaged while still allowing them to have fun and unwind. Whether it’s through interactive games, immersive learning experiences, or creative activities, these apps offer a variety of ways for kids to continue learning and growing outside of the classroom. By embracing technology as a tool for education, parents and caregivers can empower children to explore new interests, expand their knowledge, and develop essential skills that will serve them well in the future.