Fun, learning and travel-ready entertainment

An Apple iPad is hands-down my top must-have travel gadget for my kids because it is a powerful educational tool when loaded with the right apps. At home, screen time is limited but when we travel, my kids get to use their iPads to play all their favorite games and watch their favorite movies and TV shows. With a few carefully reviewed and selected apps, my kids’ iPads have become so much more than just a device for entertainment. iPads help kids practice critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving, making their screen time highly productive and beneficial.

The following apps are suitable for children roughly ages 3–10 and many are Apple Editor’s Picks. These are our tried-and-true favorites, plus a few new ones we’re planning to download for our next trip. Check out our top 10 iPad apps that kids will love and parents will feel good about.

1. PBS Kids Video
What it is: A library of educational videos featuring beloved PBS Kids characters.
Why it’s great: Kids can watch fun, short clips that teach reading, math, science and social skills. Content is kid-safe, ad-free and updated frequently.
Why parents will love it: Combines entertainment with learning, keeping kids engaged in a safe environment.
Download here.

2. PBS Kids Games
What it is: An interactive game app featuring PBS characters.
Why it’s great: Offers math, reading and problem-solving games that feel like play. A variety of games keeps kids engaged while learning.
Why parents will love it: Educational content disguised as fun games ensures screen time is productive.
Download here.

3. Hopscotch Programming For Kids
What it is: A coding app that lets kids create games, animations and stories.
Why it’s great: Introduces programming visually, encouraging logical thinking and creativity. It’s approachable even for beginners.
Why parents will love it: It’s an Apple Editor’s Pick that teaches coding fundamentals while fostering persistence and problem-solving.

Download here.

4. Bluey: Let’s Play!
What it is: A playful app inspired by the popular TV show Bluey.
Why it’s great: Kids engage in imaginative play, cooperative activities and problem-solving challenges with Bluey and her family.
Why parents will love it: Promotes creativity, teamwork and critical thinking in a screen-friendly way.
Download here.

5. Khan Academy Kids
What it is: A full-featured educational app covering reading, math, logic and social-emotional skills.
Why it’s great: Personalized lessons adapt to each child’s pace, making learning interactive and fun.
Why parents will love it: This app is an Apple Editor’s Pick offering a free, comprehensive and safe learning experience.
Download here.

6. Drawing For Kids
What it is: A creative drawing and coloring app.
Why it’s great: Children can explore colors, shapes and textures while expressing themselves artistically.
Why parents will love it: Encourages fine motor skills, imagination and independent creativity.
Download here.

7. Crayola Create and Play: Kids
What it is: A digital art studio for painting, crafting and building.
Why it’s great: Offers structured activities and open-ended play, allowing kids to create and share their work.
Why parents will love it: This app is an Apple Editor’s Pick that fosters creativity and problem-solving through art.
Download here.

8. Gabby’s Dollhouse: Create & Play
What it is: An interactive dollhouse app where kids can explore and create stories.
Why it’s great: Encourages imaginative storytelling and problem-solving while engaging with familiar characters.
Why parents will love it: Helps children develop communication skills, empathy and creativity.
Download here.

9. Disney Speedstorm
What it is: A family-friendly racing game with Disney characters.
Why it’s great: Combines reflexes and strategy in a safe, entertaining environment.
Why parents will love it: Fast-paced fun that also enhances focus, hand-eye coordination and strategic thinking.
Download here.

10. Wild Kratts Rescue Run
What it is: An educational adventure game inspired by the Wild Kratts show.
Why it’s great: Kids learn about animals, habitats and wildlife while completing exciting rescue missions.
Why parents will love it: Blends thrilling gameplay with educational content to teach science in a memorable way.
Download here.

If you’re looking for more great apps for kids, check out this collection of apps curated by Apple that spark kids’ creativity.