As a parent, I’m always on the lookout for ways to make learning fun and engaging for my kids. Whether it’s through games, stories, or screen time that actually teaches them something, there’s nothing better than seeing those lightbulb moments when they get it.
Learning English is no different.
Luckily, language-learning apps have made it super easy to turn what could feel like schoolwork into something my kids actually ask to do—and that makes my heart sing, coz I don’t want to be the nagging mom all the time (#JustJoking).
In this article, I’m sharing the 10 best apps for kids to learn English — ones I’ve tested and researched thoroughly. So, you know, these are the ones I genuinely think are worth it.
Why Use Language Learning Apps for Kids?
We live in a digital world, so why not use it to our advantage?
Language-learning apps bring English into kids’ lives in ways that feel natural and fun. Trust me, anything that gets my kids excited about learning is a win in my book.
Here’s why I think apps are a must-have for parents:
They make learning playful.
With rewards, bright visuals, and interactive games, kids stay engaged without even realizing they’re learning. My youngest literally thinks he’s just “playing” when Lingokids teaches him animal names—and I’m not about to correct him!
They foster self-paced learning.
Whether my sons want to spend 5 minutes or an hour learning English, apps give them the flexibility to go at their own speed. I love that they can finish a quick lesson during breakfast and come back later to review or try something new.
They’re designed for kids.
Kid-friendly doesn’t just mean colorful—it means apps are safe and tailored to little learners. The sounds, stars, and points keep my kids motivated without ever making it feel like work.
They work for all ages.
Apps grow with your kids. My 4-year-old loves matching words to pictures, while my older one is already practicing full sentences. There’s something for every stage of learning.
They’re accessible anywhere.
Learning doesn’t stop just because we’re on the move. My kids have done lessons during long car rides, while waiting at the doctor’s office, and even on a lazy vacation afternoon. All I need is my phone or a tablet.
And let’s be real: apps are a lifesaver for busy parents like me who want to give their kids a head start but don’t always have the time (or energy) to sit down and teach every day.
10 Best Apps to Learn English for Kids
When I started looking for English-learning apps, I was surprised by how many options were out there. Some were perfect for younger kids just starting with their ABCs, while others were better for older kids ready to build sentences and have conversations (and even learn math, science, and life skills in English!).
Here’s a handpicked list of 10 apps that will keep kids of all ages entertained while they build English skills.
Whether you’re looking for something educational, playful, or structured, this list has something for every child—from curious toddlers and busy tweens to tech-savvy teens.
1. Duolingo & Duolingo ABC
Who it’s suitable for: Ages 3-8+
About the app: So here’s the deal. With Duolingo, you have two choices:
Duolingo ABC can help your kids learn how to read and write in English. The lessons focus on sight words, phonics, handwriting, and vocabulary while they play games and listen to fun stories.
Duolingo – yes, the app that we adults use. When you create an account for your child or add them to the family plan, you enter their age, which ensures the content they learn is age-appropriate. (One thing less to worry about!)
Overall, Duolingo feels like a game but sneaks in real learning. Kids earn points, maintain streaks, and “level up” as they move through lessons. It’s colorful, fun, and effective.
Why it’s ideal for kids:
Gamified lessons keep kids coming back every day.
Bite-sized challenges make it perfect for short attention spans.
It covers reading, writing, listening, and speaking in a balanced way.
Progress tracking gives kids (and parents) a sense of achievement.
My son and I love competing for streaks—it’s become a fun little ritual in our house!
The main Duolingo app is free, but it has limitations. Alternatively, sign up for Super Duolingo for US$84.00 per year, or Duolingo Max for US$168.00 per year.
Or do the family plans with 6 language learners:
Super Duolingo Family: US$119.99 per year
Duolingo Max Family: US$299.99 per year
Platforms: iOS, Android, and web.
2. Lingokids
Who it’s suitable for: Ages 2-8
About the app: Lingokids creates a vibrant, kid-friendly world where English feels like part of playtime. Through 1,600+ songs, videos, digital books, interactive games, and quizzes, little ones pick up words and phrases naturally via the app’s Playlearning method.
Your kid can learn English via the Lingokids apps, podcasts, a YouTube Channel, and more.
Why it’s ideal for kids:
Playful games designed specifically for preschoolers and young kids.
Includes songs, worksheets, videos, and stories to reinforce vocabulary.
Kids learn English across various subjects, like math, reading & literacy, and engineering & technology.
Create well-rounded kids since they learn life skills too!
Safe and ad-free, so you don’t need to worry.
Parent dashboard to track progress.
My youngest spent an entire car ride singing “Twinkle Twinkle” in English after using Lingokids. If that’s not a parenting win, I don’t know what is!
3. Khan Academy Kids
Who it’s suitable for: Ages 2-8
About the app: Khan Academy Kids blends learning English with other foundational skills like reading, math, and critical thinking. Kids follow animated animal guides, like Kodi the Bear, who take them through interactive stories and challenges.
Why it’s ideal for kids:
Interactive stories help kids improve reading comprehension.
Covers English basics through phonics and vocabulary activities.
5,000 lessons and educational games.
Cute visuals and lively characters keep kids entertained.
I started my youngest on Khan Academy Kids when he turned 3, and it quickly became his go-to app for storytime. He loved how the characters “talked” to him.
4. Babbel
Who it’s suitable for: Ages 10+
About the app: Babbel feels more like a “grown-up” app, making it perfect for older kids who want structured lessons. With real-life scenarios, it helps kids build practical vocabulary and conversational skills.
Why it’s ideal for kids:
Short, structured lessons (10-15 minutes each).
Focuses on real-world phrases and grammar.
Great for kids transitioning to more advanced learning.
Tracks progress to keep older kids motivated.
Babbel is what I’d recommend for kids who already have some basics down and want to level up.
5. Memrise
Who it’s suitable for: Ages 12+
About the app: Memrise uses real-world videos to help kids hear English as it’s actually spoken. It’s fantastic for visual and auditory learners who want to build vocabulary quickly. Plus, they can practice speaking with MemBot.
Why it’s ideal for kids:
Videos of native speakers teach pronunciation naturally.
Focus on vocabulary and phrases for everyday use.
Spaced repetition ensures kids remember what they learn.
Quick, no-pressure lessons for busy kids.
My older son loves Memrise because it feels “less like school” and more like a quick challenge.
6. Mondly Kids
Who it’s suitable for: Ages 4-10
About the app: Mondly Kids takes the grown-up version of Mondly and makes it kid-friendly with playful themes and colorful animations. It focuses on vocabulary building while sneaking in listening and pronunciation practice.
Why it’s ideal for kids:
Fun themes like animals, food, and family make it relatable.
Playful, colorful interface designed for younger learners.
Great balance of visuals, sound, and interaction.
My 7-year-old couldn’t stop giggling when practicing “dog” and “cat” sounds in Mondly Kids.
7. Helen Doron English Apps
Who it’s suitable for: Ages 3-10
About the app: The Helen Doron English Apps are part of the globally recognized Helen Doron English learning program. Designed specifically for kids, these apps use games, songs, and videos to teach English in a natural, engaging way.
Here are some of the apps in this learning program:
Kangi Club: This is available via a web portal or an app. Your kid can play hundreds of free games, and if they are a Helen Doron student, even more fun awaits.
Helen Doron Read: Your child will learn how to read in their own time and at their own pace with this app developed by linguistic experts.
Alphachat: It’s a safe chat simulator for kids to practice listening, reading, writing, phonics, and using emojis.
Bedtime Stories with Grandma 1+2: Your child will love the classic folk tales that teach important life lessons.
Helen Doron Song Club: This is available via YouTube, and your little human will learn new songs, rhythms, rhymes, and more.
Why it’s ideal for kids:
Each app focuses on different skills, from vocabulary and reading to listening and comprehension.
Apps like Jump with Joey use vibrant animations and stories to keep younger learners entertained.
The Songs Club incorporates catchy songs to reinforce English words and phrases.
Backed by the trusted Helen Doron methodology, these apps ensure kids learn through fun and repetition.
My youngest loved the animated characters and story-driven games—he was so engrossed, he didn’t even realize he was picking up new words!
8. LearnEnglish Kids
Who it’s suitable for: Ages 5-12
About the app: Created by the British Council, LearnEnglish Kids is packed with engaging games, songs, stories, and activities that make learning English exciting for children. The app focuses on improving vocabulary, reading, listening, and grammar skills while keeping kids entertained.
Apps in LearnEnglish Kids include:
- Johnny Grammar’s Word Challenge to test vocab, spelling, and grammar.
- LearnEnglish Kids: Playtime improves your kid’s listening skills as they listen to 100+ animated songs and stories.
Why it’s ideal for kids:
Kids can enjoy puzzles, word games, riddles, tongue twisters, and matching exercises to build vocabulary.
These bring English to life through fun, memorable content.
Stories and exercises help kids develop comprehension and grammar skills.
Backed by the British Council’s reputation, this app provides high-quality learning materials.
I love how versatile this app is—my older child enjoys the grammar games, while my younger one can’t get enough of the sing-along songs.
9. iDeerKids by LingoDeer
Who it’s suitable for: Ages 4-10
About the app: iDeerKids is a child-focused app from the creators of LingoDeer, known for its playful approach to language learning. The app features vibrant animations, interactive activities, and storytelling to teach English in a way that feels natural and fun for younger learners.
Why it’s ideal for kids:
Keep kids engaged while building their vocabulary and listening skills.
Introduce English through scenarios that mimic real-life conversations.
Designed specifically for kids, unlike Lingodeer, which targets older learners and adults.
Encourage kids to try speaking and listening without feeling pressured.
I was surprised by how quickly my kids picked up basic phrases through the storytelling feature—it’s a hit in our house!
Cost: Free with optional in-app purchases.
Platforms: iOS, Android
10. Fun English by Studycat
Who it’s suitable for: Ages 3-10
About the app: Fun English by Studycat combines colorful visuals, interactive puzzles, and stories to help kids pick up words naturally.
Why it’s ideal for kids:
Games, puzzles, and songs make learning playful.
Designed to teach through repetition and interaction.
Simple, kid-friendly layout.
Perfect for kids just starting with English.
Cost: Free version; Premium starts at US$49.99 per year.
Platforms: iOS and Android
Final Tips for Success With Language Learning Apps
Learning English doesn’t stop with the app. Here are a few tips to help your kids get the most out of these tools:
Create a routine: Consistency is key—10-15 minutes daily adds up fast.
Learn together: Sometimes I sit with my kids and play along—it keeps them motivated!
Mix it up: Combine apps with books, songs, and speaking practice.
Encourage conversation practice: Ask questions like, “What’s the new word you learned today?” and have them use it in a sentence.
Reward progress: Small treats for finishing lessons or reaching milestones can keep kids motivated.
Mix age-appropriate apps: Use Lingokids, Mondly Kids, and iDeerKids for play-based learning when they’re younger and apps like Babbel, Memrise, and Lingodeer as they grow.
Reinforce learning: Use new words your child learns in daily conversations. If your child learns “apple” on the app, reinforce it at snack time.
Helping Your Kids Learn English—One App at a Time
There you have it—10 fantastic apps to help kids learn English in a fun and engaging way. Whether your child is just starting out or already learning, these tools can make a big difference.
Try a few, find the right fit, and watch their confidence grow with English!
If you enjoyed my article, please feel free to share it. Have any questions? Don't hesitate to email me!
Disclaimer: I select and review independently. If you buy through affiliate links, I may earn commissions that help support my testing at no extra cost to you. Please read my full disclosure for more information.
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