Entertainment

Check it Out

Check out these child-friendly (and parent-friendly) apps that’ll keep them engaged and entertained whilst learning.

Skyview

Ages: 3+ Cost: free Get it for: iOS or Android

SkyView app is a free augmented reality (AR) app for both iOS and Android devices, that uses your smartphone's camera to uncover different stars, constellations, planets, star clusters and other celestial bodies in the night sky. They point the device in any direction and see what planets, constellations, and even satellites are in the sky above them whether they are inside or outside it doesn’t matter.

When they see something on the screen, they can tap on it, and then read a bunch of facts about it. Kids can learn about astronomy and tonnes of sky-related factoids; from astronauts and their missions to distances of stars from Earth. They can build their research skills by tracking and recording the trajectory of their favourite planet. SkyView Universe is well-suited to give kids who are already interested in astronomy the information they seek and also to inspire kids who may not have wondered about the sky to be more curious. SkyView Universe gives loads of science information with some cool features, but the amount and depth of exploration is up to the kids. Lightbot: Code Hour

Ages: 8+ Cost: free Get it for: iOS or Android

Lightbot: Code Hour introduces kids of all ages to the basic concepts of coding and the logic that computer programmers use to write code, all without having to actually code! Instead, the app has kids get Lightbot through different pathways by using functions commonly found in code. This app is a great way to get your kid interested in coding and computer programming, without overwhelming them.

GoNoodle

Ages: 4-10 Cost: free Get it for: iOS or Android

Make screen time active with 300+ dance videos, yoga exercises, and mindfulness activities for kids! Everything is designed especially for kids (age 4-10). The GoNoodle App only includes content approved by GoNoodle’s team of child development experts and there are no in-app purchases. You can trust your kids are safe with GoNoodle. Spelling Stage

Ages: 4+ Cost: free Get it for: iOS

Kids may usually find spelling words difficult. This is one of the greatest spelling apps created for educational and family entertainment, perfect for users over the age of 4. Whether you’re the next spelling bee champion or just learning the alphabet, this spelling game can help you become the ultimate speller of all time!

Duolingo

Ages: 10+ Cost: free, optional ad-free Duolingo Get it for: iOS or Android

Learn a language. Duolingo is a great app to learn a different language. Japanese, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Chinese, Korean, Hindi, or Indonesian to name a few. Practice through audio, word identification, and oral exercises for over 30 languages. It's a great way for your family to learn a new language together.

Quick Maths Jr.

Ages: 7-11 Cost: free Get it for: iOS or Android

Quick Math Jr. is an award-winning app that covers the essential foundations of mathematics, including counting, addition and subtraction, place value, writing numbers and much more! From the creators of the award-winning Quick Math series, Quick Math Jr. is a fun way to develop mathematics skills and confidence.

Kaspersky Safe Kids

Ages: 7-11 Cost: free or premium is $19.95 Get it for: iOS, Android, Mac, PC.

Is an online wonder tool for parents to be able to safeguard and monitor their children online. It allows you to block access to adult websites and content, block harmful YouTube search requests on topics like drugs and alcohol and helps you manage access to games and inappropriate apps and websites. It even lets you manage their screen time by device, so it shuts down after their time limit has been reached. You can add the app on multiple devices, and your phone can manage at the click of a button to see what they are up to online, or cut short their internet time. The app also uses a GPS tracker so you can locate your child’s whereabouts on a real-time online map, and if you like, you can also define a safe area for them to stay in and the app alerts you instantly if they step beyond it. If that’s not enough, it also tells you when they’re running low on battery so you can warn them to plug in.

For more info head to www.pakmag.com.au/thingswelove