10 best language apps for kids

Whether your child is learning his ABCs, just starting to read, or curious about a new language, there's an app that can push the learning process along.

Picking up language basics has never been so much fun — or so mobile!

Babies and toddlers have tons of words to learn from this app. With colour photos, animations and sounds, this is a solid entry-level learning app.

Tip: Make sure you upgrade to the full version (just $2) to avoid annoying ads.

Ages: 0-3
Platform: iOS and Android



Where to Buy? $2, iTunes

Elmo wins again in the app world!  This download lets your child play storyteller, which is a great way to learn creativity and how to read. Not only can your young one dream up a story, kids can also put themselves in the story to add a personal touch. When the story is done, record the narration and share your work with family and friends.

Ages: 4-8
Platform: iPad


Where to Buy? $4, iTunes

Teach your child the alphabet and good nutrition with this app; ccolourful cards featuring vegetables and animals make learning fun. To hear a word, simply tap on a card, then play the matching game to get your child's mind into full swing. This playful app is great for little ones who are just starting to show interest in their ABC's.

Ages: 2-4
Platform: iOS


Where to Buy? $2, iTunes

If your child is learning how to speak French, this app can speed up the process. With more than 240 word-image-audio combinations, French Words for Kids makes it simple to learn how to pronounce them properly. There are also some fun visual effects to keep kids entertained for hours; they may not even realize they're learning!

Ages: 8-12
Platform: iPad

Where to Buy? $4,  iTunes

There are more than 240 common classroom words included in this app, so you can help your little one get ahead at school. Try out three different game modes so children can progress through the app.

Ages: 6-12
Platform: iOS

Where to Buy? $3, iTunes

With even the youngest babies learning sign language, it's no surprise that this app is a popular download. These quick and easy flash cards help young children learn common signs, plus there's a gaming element to keep them amused.

Ages: 4-8
Platform: iOS

Where to Buy? $1, iTunes

If you're a Windows phone or tablet user, this is one of the best alphabet apps around. Packed full of colourful animals and playful illustrations, this download will help the language learning process. There is also an audio component to reinforce each letter.

Ages: 2-4
Platform: Windows
Where to Buy? Free, Windows 8 AppStore

This PBS character is known for his power to read. With the Super Why! app, your child can go on Alpha Pig's letter hunt or check in on Wonder Red for rhyming time. As your wee one gets older, there are even virtual stickers to collect.

Ages: 2-8
Platform: iOS
Where to Buy? $4, iTunes

This app truly is a learn-to-read platform, a place where kids can tap on a word and have it read aloud. There are two free books offered when you get this free app. As the developers say, Booksy is like 'training wheels for books.'  A great perk: Parents can track their child's progress.

Ages: 4-8
Platform: iOS

Where to Buy? Free, iTunes

If you plan on taking your kids on a trip to a foreign country, they'll love playing with Talk to Me. This app uses speech recognition technology so you can speak into it in English and hear back what you've said in one of more than a dozen languages. Looking for the library in Paris but don't know how to ask? This download will do the talking for you.

Ages: 8-12
Platform: Android

Where to Buy? Free, Google Play

Develop your child's language skills with these fun and educational apps.