iPads and Tablets for Skill Development and Education

iPad

Top Educational Apps for Children: Making iPads Work for Families and Learning

In today’s tech-driven world, iPads and tablets have evolved beyond entertainment tools to become invaluable aids in education and skill development. For families and educators, particularly those supporting children with disabilities, these devices can unlock new ways of learning, communicating, and thriving. At Look Hear Australia, we’ve curated a list of our favourite educational apps — ones that balance fun, engagement, and meaningful skill-building.

But before diving into our top picks, let’s touch on an important point: screen time recommendations. While these apps are powerful tools, maintaining a balanced approach to screen time is key.

We run low screen time in our house (hardly any TV and phones only for family phone calls), we find it works better for behaviour and makes us (as parents) not rely on it. Our kids do have iPads when travelling bit also love the Yoto as a screen time alternative. You can find out more here!

We understand that lots of family do use them, and we have noted some of our favorite apps that we use at home (when our kids get the iPad) or in therapy sessions when I am treating!


Why iPads and Tablets?

iPads and tablets offer interactive, adaptable platforms that cater to diverse learning needs. With customizable features and a mix of visual and auditory stimuli, these devices can:

  • Enhance communication and emotional regulation skills.
  • Support daily routines and independence.
  • Provide tools for inclusive learning in therapy, classrooms, and at home.

Whether you’re a parent managing littles, a therapist seeking engaging tools, or an educator exploring new apps, these apps can make a big difference.


Top Educational Apps to Try Today

1. Toca Boca Apps

  • Why We Love It:
    Toca Boca creates fun, daily activity-based games that teach life skills in safe, interactive ways. Scenarios like visiting the doctor or preparing food help kids explore real-world concepts through play.
  • Best For: Parents and therapists.
  • Cost: Free to $4 AUD.
  • Where to Find It: Toca Boca Apps

2. Touch Autism Apps

  • Why We Love It:
    These highly customizable apps offer resources for communication, behavior management, and social stories. Their visually engaging design makes them effective and easy to use.
  • Best For: Parents and therapists.
  • Cost: Free to $25 AUD (watch for discounts during Autism Awareness Month in April).
  • Where to Find It: Touch Autism Apps

3. Choiceworks App

  • Why We Love It:
    Perfect for managing emotions and decision-making, this app features customizable schedules and visual supports. Add personal photos to create rewards and personalize your child’s experience.
  • Best For: Parents and therapists.
  • Cost: $10 AUD.
  • Where to Find It: Choiceworks App

4. Model Me Kids Videos

  • Why We Love It:
    Leveraging video modeling, this app teaches expected behaviors in different environments, offering visual examples to support transitions and social skills.
  • Best For: Parents and therapists.
  • Cost: Free for the app; DVDs start at $50 AUD.
  • Where to Find It: Model Me Kids

5. Super Fun Deck

  • Why We Love It:
    A versatile app offering a variety of decks to develop communication and conversation skills. It’s an ideal choice for therapists and educators, whether using digital tools or physical cards.
  • Best For: Parents, therapists, and teachers.
  • Cost: $12 to $100 AUD.
  • Where to Find It: Super Fun Deck Products

Making the Most of Screen Time

While iPads and tablets are powerful tools, it’s essential to balance their use with other activities. Here are some quick tips for effective screen time:

  1. Prioritize Interactivity: Choose apps that encourage active participation, not passive consumption.
  2. Supervise Use: Be present to guide your child and reinforce learning.
  3. Set Limits: Incorporate apps into daily routines without replacing other vital activities like outdoor play or family time.
  4. The iPad is the parents: Keep the iPad named as yours and the kid is ‘borrowing’ it. Note this doesn’t apply to AAC devices where that device is the child’s ‘voice’.

For more strategies, check out our FREE iPad guide here.


Final Thoughts

iPads and tablets can be game-changers for families, particularly when used intentionally and with balance. With the right apps, they become tools to build independence, enhance learning, and develop key life skills.

At Look Hear Australia, we’re committed to helping families and professionals navigate these resources effectively. Explore our blog for tips, visual aids, and tools that complement your child’s development journey.


Looking for expert support in Paediatric Occupational Therapy?


Tara at Look Hear Australia in Townsville, North Queensland is here to help! We offer face-to-face sessions for local clients, and for those in Queensland, Victoria, and the Northern Territory, we provide convenient telehealth options.

📅 Now accepting new clients! We’re currently opening a short waiting list with limited monthly spots for term 2, 2025 available (we are full for term 1!). Don’t miss your chance to get the support you need—book your initial consultation today!

👉 To secure your spot or learn more, lookhearaustralia@gmail.com

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