If you live in a tech lovin’ household, your toddler probably loves flinging Angry Birds just as much playing with his Legos. And sometimes, letting your tot take control of your tech gadgets can be a lifesaver, like when you’re on line at the bank, waiting for a table at the
burger joint, or in desperate need of 10 minutes to jump in the shower. The
good news is they’ll have lots of fun, work their fine motor skills, and maybe
even learn a little something. Here are our top 10 best apps for toddlers…
Monkey Preschool Lunchbox
According
to iTunes, this is the number one preschool app in the store. And no wonder
- the little ones just love packing up some treats for the adorable
monkeys. With different games that teach colors, shapes, and matching skills,
among others, this one will keep them tapping for a while. Bonus: They win
animated stickers when they complete a game.
Doodle Buddy
little bee can doodle with his or her fingers, use stamps, paint, and scribble
- all without making a mess on your kitchen walls!
(Free for
iPhone)
Plus, there’s a variety of functions to choose from
for your pre-readers, from coloring to video and music content. And parents,
you can add your child’s photo into the app for some interactive fun.
($4.99
for iPad)
backseat and let her flip through over 1,000 videos from her favorite PBS Kids
shows including SUPER WHY!,Curious George, The Cat in
the Hat, and others.
(Free on iPhone
or iPad)
for an extra couple of bucks, you’ll get more educationally-focused
fun for your money. From shapes to bugs, musical instruments to symbols, the
app boasts simple navigation, bright colors, and even a fun quiz mode.
($2.99 for iPhone
and iPad)
Perfect for your future American Idol, this app is simply fun for kids
who love to sing along. Six favorite kids tunes, including Incy
Wincy Spider and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, come
both with and without vocals.
(99 Cents for iPhone)
Watch your little guy smile as the cute farm
animals pop out after he taps on the barn doors. Fun and easy enough for little
fingers, plus he’ll learn how to identify 10 animals in English and Spanish.
($1.99 for iPhone and Android)
Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed
Completely tired of reading this toddler
favorite? Download an app to do it for you! This classic book lets kids choose
a “read to me” mode, while they get used to flipping through to see what
happens once mama calls the doctor.
Who doesn’t love Eric Carle? This game app, using
illustrations from the famed author of loved books like The Very Hungry
Caterpillar, has three levels for your growing child. Easy mode is geared
toward ages 1-3, and lets them match colors with objects, and other activities.
($1.99 for iPhone
and iPad)
and tech blogs alike, this app takes learning the alphabet and counting under
the sea. What child doesn’t love looking at fishies?
($1.99 for iPad)
These apps are sure to keep your techie tot engaged, and out of your hair for a few precious minutes. Start your downloading engines…
Dawn Papandrea is a Staten Island, NY-based freelance writer and blogger, and
mom of two boys who love to steal her tech gadgets.
