
Educational apps and games for children
Here we have collected a number of apps and games that children can use to learn something. Topics are mathematics, nature, problem-solving, empathy, music, construction, sensible use of the internet, and the like.
Choose language in the Google-box below. Some translations may be flawed or inaccurate.
Apps and games for kids are often all about pure entertainment. We list below a number of apps and games that have an extra dimension, such as being able to learn something or get out into nature. The list does not necessarily include “school apps” that are designed to fulfill the curricula, but still one can learn something.
Children can use some of the apps on their own. But many also provide a good opportunity to sit with the child. One of the apps is a game that takes place in a hospital. For example, when the child visits the X-ray department, you will have a great opportunity to tell what it is.
As an adult, you should read our review of the individual app or games before telling your child that it’s okay to download. For example, we provide recommended age limits from PEGI. As usual, there are some risks associated with apps and games:
- If the app allows for chat, your child may come into contact with strangers with malicious intent. Connecting to the internet can also mean leaving unfortunate traces, for example about which address you are staying at. However, not all apps and games need to be connected to the internet in order to be used.
- In the case of outdoor apps, i.e., apps that will be used outdoors in connection with nature or the like, there may be a risk of getting lost in the forest or walking across the street without looking in.
- Children may be intimidated or see something inappropriate. Again: Check the age limit and our review.
NB! In some of the links below, there are long lists of suggestions.
Various subjects such as music, mathematics, Norwegian language, etc.
- Apps for kids: Norwegian, English, music
- Cool kid apps with song and music
- The app Kæsj teaches children about finances
- Games: Learn about Ole Bull and cities in Europe
- Using Minecraft in your classroom (or at home)
- Educational apps during the corona
- Learn about colors
- Osmo Genius Kit for iPad. Draw, calculate, work with words, and so on.
- Learn piano or guitar
- Create your own books on tablets
Programming
Body and Psychology
- Apps that teach children about body and health
- Games about empathy
- TV series: Kindergarten life (requires a subscription to TV2)
Building, creativity, problem-solving
Apps that combine with our physical reality
- How apps and games can be combined with physical toys
- Apps that transform the living room floor into a playground (AR technology)
- The apps that make it fun to be outside
Nature
- Seek Plant and Insect Safari app in forests and fields. Point with the mobile camera, and see the name of plants, fungi, animals, and insects in nature.
- iNaturalist app. Take photos of animals, insects, and plants and let the app identify species.
- The game Toca Nature. Create natural landscapes and play and learn with the animals that live there.
- Geocaching. Find treasures in nature using GPS coordinates.
- Learn about garbage with Rusken.
- Be kind to the animals
- The species hunt Help Norwegian researchers get an overview of the distribution of plants and animals.
- The Footprints app can be used to log trips in nature or find something.
- Tv series: Klatrekampen (requires a subscription to TV2)
- Film: Visiting a farm
Sensible use of the internet
Teaching videos for children:
- In-game chat
- Self-esteem and photos online
- Source criticism and fake news
- Sharing photos
- Online friendship
- YouTube
- Cyberbullying
- Screen Time
- Security
- Gaming
Resources for school:
- Learning resources about online knowledge for use in school (or at home)
Activities for children
Activities during the pandemic (or when you run out of ideas). The list shows everything from gym exercises to teaching about the parliament.
Movies that you might be able to learn something from
Articles for parents who want to teach their children something
- Homepage: Conspiracy Theories
- Homepage: Source Criticism
- Homepage: Media Violence
- Homepage: Nudity
- Photo tips for children
- Using Kahoot to teach children about something
Put away the screen and get some physical activity?
- Ideas for physical activity for children (external page)
- The National Centre for Food, Health and Physical Activity has learning resources for kindergarten and school (external side)
(Translated from Norwegian by Ratan Samadder)