Are you the parent of a tween? If so, then you already know the challenges of finding quality, safe apps for them to use.
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With more younger kids using smartphones or smart devices, it is imperative that parents stay on top of their digital habits and find the best apps for children that will help them navigate the online world safely.
Common Sense Media explains, “Preteens need concrete guidelines for responsible use of the smartphone — these are powerful little devices. They also need to know what your expectations are for responsible, respectful online behavior.”
When it comes to finding great apps for kids 8-12 years old, you must look for apps that they will actually use and enjoy; however, it is also important to look for apps that will keep them safe (such as apps with parental control options) and educate them.
We’ve identified the top apps for children 8-12 years old to help you hand your kid a smartphone without fear.
1 – Froggipedia
Froggipedia has been named the Top iPad app of 2018 by Apple. Considering the millions of apps available, this award means it is a winner. Froggipedia is an AR app (augmented reality) that allows users to explore and learn about the anatomy of a frog – without dissection.
2 – Box Island
With the STEM movement on the rise, kids have opportunities to learn new skills in fun ways. For example, Box Island is a computer science game app that uniquely teaches kids coding. Plus, the combination of STEM learning and fun makes this one of the best free apps for kids!
3 – Marble Math
Another educational app that uses gaming to reinforce skills is Marble Math. As the name suggests, this award-winning app combines math and mazes.
4 – Duolingo
For middle schoolers and up, Duolingo is one of the best free apps for kids when it comes to language learning. Users can choose a language and then play games to build their vocabulary and fluency. And it doesn’t stop there: Parents can learn along with their kids, as every family member gets their own profile.
5 – A Dark Room
A Dark Room is totally different from all other game apps that rely heavily on graphics. Instead, A Dark Room is a strictly text-based adventure game that forces kids to think outside the box.
6 – Gorogoa
The 2018 iPad Game of the Year title went to Gorogoa, and it is easy to see why. This is a visually-rich puzzle game that will challenge kids and adults alike.
7 – The Infinite Arcade
Another playful way to reinforce STEM skills is the game app The Infinite Arcade by Tinybop. In this app, users design and build their own arcade games.
8 – GarageBand
Looking for an app for your music-loving kid? One of the best free apps for kids is GarageBand. This app lets kids record, edit, and produce high-quality music tracks.
9 – Terraria
If your kids love Minecraft but are aging out of it, introduce them to Terraria. Terraria is a multi-player game, but tweens will only compete locally (or with people they know) rather than with strangers.
10 – Kudos
Parents looking for a safe way to introduce their tweens to social media will love Kudos. Essentially, this is a safe, photo-sharing app for tweens. Best of all, parents are informed of their kid’s activities on this platform.
As with all digital content, moderating usage is key. We are big fans of setting time limits and like that Apple lets you now monitor and set downtimes.
Is there an app you recommend for parents of kids in this age group? Let us know!
