The best tablets for kids turn screen time into educational experiences. Tablets have become valuable tools that offer educational apps, interactive games, and creative platforms. So with the right device (and a little moderation), you can turn screen time into a positive experience that supports your child’s development.
But how do you choose the perfect tablet among so many options? From parental controls to educational content, there are several features to consider.
Educational Benefits of Tablets for Children
Here’s how tablets support and promote learning for children:
Access to Educational Content
One major benefit of the best tablets for kids is their access to lots of educational resources. Kids can explore e-books, instructional videos, and even curated content on platforms like YouTube Kids. This exposure allows them to discover topics they love, starting a passion for learning.
Tablets Build Digital Literacy Skills
As technology integrates more into daily life, children need to feel comfortable with digital devices. Luckily, tablets give them the hands-on experience they’ll need for school and beyond.
Gamifying Learning & Creativity
Learning becomes more enjoyable with interactive games and apps, which turn abstract concepts into hands-on lessons. For instance, a math app may use visual puzzles to simplify arithmetic, making it easier for kids to grasp.
In addition to learning, the best tablets for kids encourage creativity through apps for drawing, music, and storytelling. These platforms allow children to express themselves artistically, fostering imagination and uncovering hidden talents.
Tablets provide numerous educational benefits for kids. With moderation and the right parental controls in place, you can ensure that screen time becomes a productive part of your child’s day.
Key Features to Consider in Kids’ Tablets
Choosing the best tablet for kids involves considering several important features:
- Parental Controls: Manage what your child can access and for how long. Look for controls to restrict apps, websites, and screen time.
- Durability: Choose sturdy designs with features like shatter-safe screens or kid-proof cases to withstand drops and everyday use.
- Age-Appropriate Content: Look for preloaded educational apps and games tailored to your child’s age group to ensure engaging and appropriate content.
- Battery Life: A long-lasting battery means uninterrupted learning and play throughout the day, especially on the go.
- Performance: Opt for tablets with a good processor and adequate RAM to provide smooth operation, especially for more demanding educational apps.
- Storage Capacity: Ensure enough storage space for apps, books, and videos. Devices with expandable storage are useful as content libraries grow.
- Screen Size and Resolution: Larger screens are great for videos and interactive learning. Meanwhile, high-resolution displays provide clearer images.
- Educational Features: Consider tablets with pre-installed educational apps or access to content that aligns with your child’s learning needs.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi is standard, but cellular options give you access to the internet even when you’re out of the house and not connected to Wi-Fi. Bluetooth is also useful for connecting accessories like headphones.
- Camera Quality: If photography or video calls are important, look for good front and rear cameras.
- Accessories Compatibility: Devices that support accessories like styluses or keyboards can boost functionality for creative tasks.
By keeping these key features in mind, you’ll be able to choose a tablet that meets your child’s needs and supports their educational journey.
LeapFrog LeapPad Academy: Education-Centric Tablet
If you’re looking for a tablet that prioritizes learning, the LeapFrog LeapPad Academy is an excellent choice. Aimed at ages three to eight, this tablet has features that help with educational growth while keeping kids engaged.
The LeapPad Academy comes with a 7-in.shatter-safe screen and a tough bumper with a built-in kickstand. Additionally, it comes with 20 educator-approved apps that cover reading, math, science, and creativity, providing a solid foundation for school.
Still, one of the key highlights is the three-month free trial of LeapFrog Academy, an interactive learning program with over 2,000 games and activities. This program guides children through Learning Adventures, making education fun and interactive.
Parental controls are robust, allowing you to set time limits, approve websites, and manage content for up to three profiles. You can also customize the home screen and add stickers so your child can show off their own personal style and creativity.
Amazon Fire Tablets: Affordable, Durable & Kid-Friendly
The Amazon Fire tablets come packed with parental controls, age-appropriate educational apps, and a kid-proof design. Additionally, each Fire tablet comes with a two-year worry-free guarantee, where they’ll replace it for free in case of damage during normal use.
So, whether you’re looking for a tablet for younger or older kids, Amazon Fire tablets offer a dependable option for learning and entertainment.
Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro: Designed for Older Kids
The Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro is a solid choice for children aged six to 12. Its 10.1-in. Full HD display delivers clear and brilliant graphics, making educational apps and videos engaging. Plus, with 32 GB of storage, expandable up to 1 TB via microSD, there’s space for apps, books, and multimedia.
When it comes to content, the included one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+ provides access to thousands of ad-free books, games, and videos from popular brands. After the first year, the subscription auto-renews, but you can cancel anytime.
And as for safety, this tablet has top-of-the-line parental controls. You can manage screen time limits, set educational goals, and approve app requests directly from your phone.
Additional safety features include a filtered web browser, ensuring your child explores the internet in a secure environment. Kids can even enjoy educational content on YouTube Kids within the controlled settings.
When it comes to design, this tablet features a kid-proof case with a sturdy kickstand, built to withstand everyday drops and bumps.
Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro: Balanced Performance and Portability
For a blend of performance and portability, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro is worth considering. Its smaller size is perfect for kids who are always on the move. Designed for ages six to 12, this tablet offers a faster hexa-core processor and 2 GB of RAM, providing a smooth experience for apps and games.
Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet: Budget-Friendly Choice
For an affordable option that doesn’t sacrifice essential features, the Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet may be considered one of the best tablets for kids. Aimed at kids aged three to seven, it features a 7-in. screen and comes with either 16 GB or 32 GB of storage, expandable up to 1 TB with a microSD card.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Kids Edition: Android Option With Lots of Features
If you’re searching for a tablet that combines several features with a kid-friendly design, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Kids Edition may be the perfect fit. This tablet boasts an 11-in. screen with a 1920 x 1200 pixels resolution, resulting in vivid visuals.
Powered by an upgraded chipset and 4 GB of RAM, it delivers smooth performance whether your child is learning, playing games, or streaming content. Storage options include 64 GB or 128 GB. Plus, with microSD support, you can expand the storage for more apps and media.
One of the standout features is the Samsung Kids app, which provides a safe digital environment for your child to explore. With easy-to-use parental controls, you can customize settings, set time limits, and monitor usage to ensure a balanced screen time.
The tablet comes with a colorful, puffy cover that protects against drops and bumps and includes an adjustable kickstand for hands-free use.
Additionally, the included Crayo-Pen styluses are perfect for little hands, encouraging creativity through drawing and interactive apps.
Apple iPads: Power, Flexibility & Learning Potential
Apple iPads are hugely popular, known for their powerful performance and versatility.
Frankly, these are an expensive option aimed mostly at adults. But these tablets do offer plenty of parental controls and a huge selection of educational apps, so many consider them among the best tablets for kids.
Still, with options like the iPad (10th Generation) and iPad Mini (6th Generation), there are a variety of size options available.
Here’s a quick guide to some popular Apple models that may be appropriate for your child:
Apple iPad (10th Generation): Versatile & User-Friendly
If you’re looking for one of the best tablets for kids that combines power and versatility, the Apple iPad (10th Generation) is a top contender. Its 10.9-in. Liquid Retina Display offers an immersive experience, making educational apps and videos more engaging.
Powered by the A14 Bionic chip, this tablet provides smooth performance whether your child is exploring learning apps, playing games, or watching YouTube educational channels.
But, one of the standout features is the parental controls. With Apple’s built-in Screen Time, you can manage app usage, set content restrictions, and monitor your child’s screen time. This helps create a safe digital environment for your child.
As for helpful accessories, the iPad supports the Apple Pencil (USB-C) and the Magic Keyboard Folio, transforming the tablet into a creative and educational powerhouse. This means that older kids can draw, take notes, or work on school projects with ease.
Storage options include 64GB or 256GB, providing ample space for apps, photos, and videos. For perspective, a full-length movie can take 1-5 GB, depending on its definition and length. This means the 256GB option can store around 50 movies, whereas the 64GB can only store around 12.
Meanwhile, the 12MP front and back cameras are perfect for video calls and capturing memorable moments.
Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation): Compact Powerhouse
For a more portable option without compromising performance, consider the Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation). Its 8.3-in. Liquid Retina Display makes it easy for smaller hands to handle. Yet despite its compact size, it’s equipped with a powerful A15 Bionic chip, ensuring fast and efficient operation for all their apps and games.
The iPad Mini also supports the Apple Pencil (USB-C), encouraging creativity through drawing, note-taking, and interactive learning apps.
If the camera is an important feature for you, the 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage keeps your child centered during video calls—a great feature for virtual classrooms or staying in touch with family.
But as with any Apple product, this is an expensive option that is probably best suited to older children who are transitioning into young adults.
Choosing the Best Tablets for Kids: What Matters Most
Choosing the right tablet can spark learning and creativity in your child. What you want to do is find a balance between education and entertainment.
With options that offer strong parental controls and engaging content, you can feel confident in your choice. Remember, the best tablets for kids are those that fit your child’s needs and your family’s values.
So, take the time to explore, and you’ll find the perfect device to support your child’s growth and curiosity.
