The 5 Best Summer Apps for Kids

The 5 Best Summer Apps for Kids

By Published On: August 2, 2024Categories: EducationComments Off on The 5 Best Summer Apps for Kids

With school out for the summer, families are on the lookout for engaging activities to keep kids entertained and avoid the dreaded ‘I’m bored’ complaints. While excessive screen time is not ideal, some apps can offer both fun and educational benefits. Here are 5 free apps we recommend keeping kids learning, moving, and entertained this summer. 

Catchy Words AR (Ages 4+) 

Catchy Words AR (Ages 4+) 

  • What it is: A spelling reinforcement game using augmented reality (AR). 

  • How it works: Uses the device’s camera to create virtual bubbles and letters in your room. 

  • Key Features: 

  • Kids move around to pop virtual bubbles and release letters. 

  • Letters are placed in holders to spell basic words. 

  • Customizable word list to tailor the experience. 

  • Why kids love it: Chasing bubbles and interactive learning. 

  • Why parents love it: Enhances word structure and spelling skills. 

GoNoodle-Kids Videos (Ages 4+)

GoNoodle-Kids Videos (Ages 4+)

  • What it is: A streaming app featuring various movement videos.

  • How it works: Offers dance, yoga, sports, and mindfulness videos.

  • Key Features: 

  • Modeled by a real dancer.

  • Includes “Brain Breaks” for resetting the mind and body.

  • Chromecast feature for streaming to TV.

  • Why kids love it: Fun music and engaging animations.

  • Why parents love it: Safe, age-appropriate content.

Seek by iNaturalist (Ages 4+)

Seek by iNaturalist (Ages 4+)

  • What it is: An app using image recognition to identify plants and animals.

  • How it works: Scan plants/animals to learn about them and earn digital badges.

  • Key Features: 

  • Observation challenges for a gamified experience.

  • Safety Features: Reminders to stay aware of surroundings.

  • Why kids love it: Discovering nature and earning badges.

  • Why parents love it: Educational and encourages outdoor activity.

Beanstack Tracker (Ages 4+)

Beanstack Tracker (Ages 4+)

  • What it is: A reading motivation app used by schools and libraries.

  • How it works: Log reading progress and earn badges towards reading goals.

  • Key Features: 

  • Thematic challenges like “Animals Across America.”

  • Track stats like books read, pages, and minutes.

  • Interact with a community of Beanstack readers.

  • Why kids love it: Earning badges and interactive reading.

  • Why parents love it: Monitors reading progress and encourages literacy

Skyview Lite (4+)

Skyview Lite (4+)

  • What it is: A stargazing app highlighting constellations, planets, and satellites.

  • How it works: Uses your phone’s camera and location to identify celestial objects.

  • Key Features: 

  • AR-powered, connects dots between stars to display constellations.

  • Provides background information and links to external resources.

  • No internet connection needed once set up.

  • Why kids love it: Exploring the night sky.

  • Why parents love it: Educational and perfect for camping or summer adventures.

These apps not only keep your kids entertained but also offer educational benefits. Download them and make this summer both fun and enriching for your children!

Source: Images used from the Apple App Store (June 2024)

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