6 apps for kids under 6

While some parents may object, there’s definitely a “goldilocks zone” when it comes to screen time for kids. This “goldilocks zone” can be viewed in terms of time, quality and value. While too much screen time can be harmful to the junior tech gurus of the world, not enough can be just as detrimental. Technology, and specifically mobile applications, can be valuable resources in a child’s education and upbringing. With that being said, we would like to highlight some of our favorite kid-geared mobile apps.

*Note: This list is based on real parent observations and is geared toward kids ages 2-5.

App: Endless Alphabet for iOS and Android
Highlights:

• 2013 App of the Year Runner-Up
• App Store’s Editor’s Choice

Cost: $5.99 – $6.99
Reason why we like it: Not only is this app highly educational for toddlers first learning their ABCs and who want to build one heck of a vocabulary (I don’t know about you, but I didn’t know the word “gargantuan” at age 3!), but it also features beautiful graphics designed specifically for its target player. Additionally, because it’s a paid-for app, your little one will enjoy an advertisement-free experience and you won’t find unwanted purchases on your next bill.

App: Starring You Books by Storybots for iOS
Cost: Free
Reason we like it: The folks at JibJab Media, the original creators of the Stroybots online game from 1999, have produced another crowd-pleaser with their “Starring You Books” app. In the words of our very own Antoine Dubeauclard, father of two young girls, “Its educational mixed with fun. You can also add a picture [of your child] to show up in the videos. Kids love it!”

App: Toca Town for iOS and Android
Highlights:

• App Store Best of 2014

Cost: $2.99
Reason we like it: Because Toca Town is fairly new, its creators are still working out some of the game’s kinks. However, parents are raving over the concept of the game itself. This game introduces many real world activities to kids and, at the same time, allows each activity to be powered by the user’s imagination. In it, the child can experience everyday activities such as grocery shopping, cooking, and spending time with friends and family. It’s real-world experience, right from the convenience of your tablet or smartphone.

App: Grandma Loves Bugs for iOS
Cost: $2.99
Reason we like it: Even I remember when bugs seemed fun and interesting. In general, kids are much more accepting of and fascinated by the little guys, especially when compared to adults who often flinch, scream and bolt at the mere sight of a spider. For the little adventure-seeker in your life, we recommend Grandma Loves Bugs. This game is great for kids who love learning about the outdoors. It teaches them to identify different varieties of bugs, provides them with the tools to color butterflies, and coaches them on the spelling of bug names. However, buyers and ‘faint-at-heart’ parents beware – Grandma may or may not end up with a spider in her hair every so often.

App: ABC Mouse for iOS and Android
Cost: Free
Reason we like it: ABC Mouse has a long-standing history (as far as the Internet is concerned), which is rooted in teaching kids their ABCs via a computer mouse, hence the “mouse” ambassador. Over the years, ABC Mouse has developed some amazing programs and its mobile app is no exception. The game is both comprehensive and interactive, educating kids on reading, math, science, art, music and so on. While we love ABC Mouse for all the reasons identified above, we especially love that the website contains zero external links, making it incredibly safe for young players.

App: Monkey Preschool Lunchbox for Android
Cost: $1.99
Reason we like it: I bet if you survey a hundred people, a good majority of them would choose a monkey as their favorite animal. What’s not loveable about a monkey, right? With an adorable monkey acting as the lead navigator, this app features a variety of games that teach mini techies about colors, letters, counting, differences and matching.

Technology has become an integral part of a child’s education. The above list of kid-friendly mobile apps are all great options for parents looking for “quiet-time” activities that promote individual play, learning and creativity. So try a couple and feel free to share your thoughts with us!