Are you looking for FREE apps to help promote your child’s speech and language development? How about some FREE apps to keep your little ones entertained (while “secretly” learning)?!
Let’s be real kids are obsessed with screens. Whether it’s your phone, tablet, or even the TV remote, they always seem to find a way to get their little hands on it. But instead of fighting it, why not use it to their advantage?
There are so many amazing FREE Learning apps out there that can support speech and language development while keeping kids engaged. Whether you’re an SLP looking for new tools, a teacher trying to add more tech to your lessons, or a parent who just wants something educational in the mix, I’ve got you covered!
Here are 5 of my favorite free Learning apps that encourage speech, language, and early literacy skills without kids even realizing they’re learning!
And if you’re looking for even more interactive, digital learning options, Boom Cards are a great alternative, but we’ll talk more about those later!
1. Toca Kitchen Monsters by Toca Boca
If you haven’t discovered Toca Boca learning apps yet, what are you waiting for?! These apps are visually engaging, creative, and (most importantly) packed with learning opportunities.
Toca Kitchen Monsters is a huge hit with little ones because it lets them experiment with food while sneaking in some language development at the same time. Kids can chop, blend, boil, and serve meals to silly monster characters, making this a great way to practice:
✅ Following directions – “Can you chop the carrot first?”
✅ Describing actions – “What happens when we blend the tomato?”
✅ Expanding vocabulary – “Let’s add some spicy pepper!”
This learning app is so much fun that kids don’t even realize they’re practicing important speech and language skills!
Download for iOS: Toca Kitchen Monsters on the App Store
2. Dr. Panda – Learn & Play
I love Dr. Panda learning apps because they are interactive, engaging, and designed for little learners. Dr. Panda – Learn & Play is especially great for preschoolers because it covers a variety of early learning concepts—including letters, numbers, shapes, and storytelling—through hands-on games.
Here’s why I love using this learning app:
- It encourages creativity. Kids get to explore and interact with different environments.
- It builds vocabulary. Each game introduces new words in a fun and meaningful way.
- It strengthens problem-solving skills. Kids have to complete simple challenges, helping them practice logic and reasoning.
This is a perfect learning app for keeping kids engaged and learning at the same time!
- Download for iOS: Dr. Panda – Learn & Play on the App Store
3. Peek-A-Zoo
This app is such a gem! Peek-A-Zoo is simple but so effective for helping kids develop social language and early literacy skills.
Here’s how it works: Kids look at different cartoon animal characters and try to figure out what they’re doing. They might have to identify who is smiling, who is waving, or who is feeling sad.
Why is this learning app a favorite of mine?
- It supports social-emotional learning. Kids get to practice identifying emotions and facial expressions.
- It reinforces early language skills. The game encourages kids to listen and respond to simple prompts.
- It builds attention skills. Kids have to look closely and think critically about what they see.
If you work with little ones who need help with social cues, emotions, or early language, this is a must-try learning app!
Download for iOS: Peek-A-Zoo on the App Store
4. Duolingo ABC – Learn to Read
We all know Duolingo for language learning, but did you know they have an early literacy learning app for kids? Duolingo ABC is designed to help preschoolers and early elementary kids learn to read through interactive stories, phonics games, and letter-tracing activities.
I love this learning app because:
- It’s completely FREE – no hidden fees, no in-app purchases!
- It’s research-based – designed by literacy experts to support early reading skills.
- It makes learning to read fun – with engaging, bite-sized lessons perfect for short attention spans.
If you’re looking for a learning app that introduces letters, sounds, and basic reading skills in a super engaging way, Duolingo ABC is a great option!
Download for iOS: Duolingo ABC on the App Store
5. Khan Academy Kids
If you’re looking for a well-rounded educational learning app that covers language, literacy, math, and problem-solving, Khan Academy Kids is a must-have.
This learning app is amazing because:
- It’s designed by education experts. Aligned with early learning standards.
- It includes interactive stories. Great for language development and comprehension.
- It’s full of engaging games. Kids learn through play, making it easier to retain new skills!
Plus, it’s 100% free, no ads, no subscriptions, just high-quality educational content!
Download for iOS: Khan Academy Kids on the App Store
Looking for More Interactive Learning? Try Boom Cards!
If you love the idea of digital learning apps but want something more interactive and structured, Boom Cards are another great option!
Boom Cards are self-checking, interactive task cards that provide instant feedback, making them perfect for reinforcing speech, language, early literacy, and more. Whether you're working with preschoolers, early elementary students, or children who benefit from visual learning!
Why I Love Boom Cards:
- Self-Paced & Engaging: Students can work through activities at their own pace, receiving immediate feedback.
- Interactive & Fun: With drag-and-drop features, audio support, and engaging visuals, kids stay focused and motivated.
- Accessible Anywhere: Boom Cards work on tablets, computers, and interactive whiteboards—perfect for in-person or remote learning.
- No Prep for You! They’re completely digital, so there’s no printing, cutting, or laminating required!
My Favorite Boom Cards:
I’ve created Boom Card decks that focus on essential learning skills, including:
- Boom Cards for Books: Interactive comprehension and vocabulary activities to build reading skills. Includes book-based activities for popular series like How to Catch a… (How to Catch a Leprechaun, How to Catch a Snowman, and more!).
- Boom Cards for Visual Recipes: Step-by-step, picture-supported recipes that help kids learn sequencing and life skills. Features seasonal recipes, such as making hot chocolate in winter or fun summer treats!
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Boom Cards for Speech & Language Skills: Includes activities that focus on:
- Categories
- Expanding Utterances
- Object Function
- Preschool Vocabulary
- Sequencing
- WH Questions
- And More!
👉 Check out my Boom Cards here: My Boom Cards on Boom Learning
That concludes my list of free apps for your little ones! I really hope you enjoyed it and are able to take away some good ideas. I would LOVE to hear your experiences with any of the mentioned apps AND your recommendations of other free apps!
All of the apps mentioned in this post are my personal recommendations. No other compensation was provided and all opinions expressed are my own.
