I love finding educational apps that foster learning while still being fun, I was really impressed with the PBS Parents Play & Learn app. Designed by PBS, this app offers a variety of interactive games that my kids and I can enjoy together, with each game tying into everyday experiences like going to the grocery store, visiting the garden, or spending time in the kitchen. It’s also incredibly versatile, featuring both English and Spanish options, which is a big plus in our bilingual household.
One of the highlights of this app is its approach to making learning feel natural. Every game has a clear educational goal – whether it’s teaching math, literacy, or pattern recognition – and there are handy parent tips that pop up, explaining how to make the most of the learning opportunities. These “teachable moments” tips are such a great feature because they show me how to engage with my kids during play in a way that strengthens the skills they’re practicing.
The variety in this app is amazing. With 13 different games, there’s always something new for my children to explore. And the best part is that each game adapts to their skill level, so as they improve, the challenges grow with them. Whether they’re flying a kite, making patterns with seashells, or playing in the sand, every activity reinforces math and literacy skills in ways that don’t feel forced.
I also love that the app is updated regularly with new resources, seasonal stickers, and fresh content, which keeps it engaging for my kids. The summer-themed background, in particular, has been a big hit. It really brings the fun to life, and the sticker section lets my kids express their creativity, which adds a nice balance between structured learning and free play.
Another standout feature is the flexibility the app offers. It’s fully bilingual, which is fantastic for reinforcing language skills in both English and Spanish. I appreciate that the app encourages dialogue between parents and children, making it a shared learning experience rather than something that’s done passively. My kids enjoy the colorful visuals, and I enjoy seeing them actively learning, all while having a blast.
Overall, PBS Parents Play & Learn has been a fantastic addition to our collection of learning apps. It keeps the kids entertained with fun games while teaching valuable skills like counting, problem-solving, and vocabulary. It’s clear that the app was designed with parents in mind, making it easy to connect everyday moments with learning. Whether you’re at home or out and about, this app turns any moment into an opportunity for growth. Highly recommend it to any parent looking for something educational, fun, and bilingual!
Parent review
Thos is a great free resource! It was my daughter’s first game she could really interact with on the phone. I’d much rather her screen time in the day be games she has to think and interact with than just staring at a TV. And she really is learning and having to think about the games rather than some that just color or poke around.
Christina Huber
