Not all screen time is created equal in today’s world of digital material, particularly for young children. For kids ages three to five, interactive, educator-approved apps from the top preschool learning apps list can provide worthwhile learning opportunities, even though too much passive media exposure can be problematic..
Selecting learning apps that are entertaining, developmentally appropriate, and based on early learning objectives—such as reading, numeracy, problem-solving, and emotional development—is crucial.
Application learning” refers to using the knowledge and skills gained through learning in real-world scenarios. It’s about putting learning into practice and applying it to solve problems or achieve goals. This involves going beyond just acquiring information and actively engaging in tasks that require the use of that information. Application learning in early childhood education helps young learners develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and confidence as they connect what they learn with everyday experiences.
Why is application important?
- Reinforcement: Applying learning helps solidify understanding and knowledge.
- Skill Development: Application provides opportunities to develop and refine practical skills.
- Problem-Solving: Applying learning allows individuals to tackle real-world challenges and find solutions.
- Longer-Term Retention: Active application leads to better long-term retention of learned material.
We solicited feedback from early childhood educators regarding their best picks. Teachers and professionals who know what works have rated these top preschool learning apps for 2025.
1. Khan Academy Kids
Best For: All-around early learning application
Rated: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ by educators
Why Educators Love It:
- Covers math, reading, logic, social-emotional learning, and more
- Features colorful characters and stories that adapt to a child’s pace
- Free and ad-free
What It Teaches:
Letter sounds, number sense, sequencing, memory, vocabulary, and emotional awareness
📱 Platform: iOS, Android
💰 Cost: Free

2. Sago Mini World
Best For: Creativity, pretend play, and emotional skills learning appliction
Rated: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why Educators Love It:
- Encourages open-ended play and storytelling
- Offers 40+ games that explore everything from space to construction
- No competitive pressure—just discovery
What It Teaches:
Social skills, creativity, empathy, imaginative play
📱 Platform: iOS, Android
💰 Cost: Subscription or free with limited content

3. Starfall ABCs
Best For: Early literacy learning application
Rated: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Why Educators Love It:
- Research-backed by educators and widely used in classrooms
- Features interactive letters, phonics songs, and early reading exercises
- Safe and ad-free
What It Teaches:
Letter recognition, phonics, sight words, and reading readiness
📱 Platform: iOS, Android, web
💰 Cost: Free basic version, or subscription (~$35/year)

4. Peekaboo Barn
Best For: Toddlers transitioning into preschool learning application
Rated: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why Educators Love It:
- Simple, intuitive app that teaches animal names and sounds
- Available in multiple languages
- Helps develop early word-object associations
What It Teaches:
Animal names and sounds, early vocabulary, cause-and-effect
📱 Platform: iOS, Android
💰 Cost: Paid (~$2–3)

5. Busy Shapes & Colors (Edoki Academy)
Best For: Logic, patterns, and problem-solving learning application
Rated: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Why Educators Love It:
- Based on Montessori principles
- Strengthens fine motor skills and cognitive flexibility
- Great intro to geometry and spatial relationships
What It Teaches:
Shapes, colors, matching, categorization, and visual thinking
📱 Platform: iOS
💰 Cost: One-time purchase

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