Smartphones and tablets put the world at your child’s fingertips thanks to a wealth of exceptional educational apps that offer glimpses of the wonders of the world, insights into different cultures, and quizzes of geography facts and figures.
Not only will your kids get a look at the extraordinary world they might not know is out there, you may even find yourself staring at gorgeous photos and learning about a place that might become your next dream vacation.
AirPano Travel Book
Of course you’ve seen the pyramids before, but do you know what’s next to them? Dizzying panoramic photos of the wonders of the world, both manmade and natural, are sure to keep kids (and parents) enraptured.
Photos are accompanied by facts about the landmark in the photo, along with a map to show where the breathtaking shot was taken. Browse through mountaintops, lakes, waterfalls and historical sites to get your first look at an incredible locale you’ve never seen before.
$2.99, iPhone/iPad
Barefoot World Atlas
Spin the globe with just a swipe of your finger, and start exploring! Narrated text and a detailed, animated map give elementary-age kids the chance to discover countries, cities, landmarks and more. Gentle music and high-resolution photos add to the multimedia experience.
Expansion packs are also available as in-app purchases if your kids wish to play puzzles, take a closer look at 100 of the world’s cities, and learn more about North American culture.
$4.99, iPhone/iPad
Geography Drive Arcade
Forget the flash cards! If your kids have a state capital quiz or U.S. geography test coming up, there’s no better app to get them prepared anywhere and anytime — and have a fun time while doing so. This snazzy app offers challenges identifying state shapes and flags, along with spelling practice for state names and a capitals quiz.
$2.99, iPhone/iPad, Android
Homes by Tinybop
This highly interactive app invites small kids to get their first look at typical houses from around the world. Wash dishes, pet animals, tune in to the radio for local music, and more for an engaging introduction to world culture. Explore the homes of families in New York City, Mongolia, Yemen and Guatemala to get your child thinking about the big world around them.
$3.99, iPhone/iPad
Kids Maps – U.S. Map Puzzle
Preschoolers might have a hard time understanding how the U.S. fits together, but thanks to this puzzle app, they can get one of their first looks at where the states are found on the map. Each state is a puzzle piece accompanied by voice narration saying the name of the state and a fun fact. This app is a simple, fun way for smaller kids to learn about cities, states, and the United States.
$1.99, iPhone/iPad, Android
U.S. Geography by Mindsnacks
This polished app gives older kids the chance to dive in to not only state identification, but U.S. cities and landmarks as well. And it’s not just good for kids! If you’re curious about how much you know about the U.S., play a game to try to place a pin on the map where Yellowstone National Park or Mount Rushmore are located. U.S. Geography by Mindsnacks feels like a game, but is all learning, the perfect balance for an educational app.
$1.99, iPhone/iPad
