What to Look Out for Before Downloading an App for Your Child

Technology Can Be a Lifesaver — and a Minefield

If you're a parent of a child between 6 and 12, you've probably faced this dilemma: your child wants a new app. Maybe it's for learning, maybe it's a game their classmates play, or maybe it's supposed to help with homework. And while some digital tools can make your child’s life easier — and yours too — others can open doors to inappropriate content, in-app purchases, and more screen time than you intended.

Deciding whether or not to let your child download an app is no longer a simple yes or no question. It’s about asking better questions — and knowing what to look for.

Start With the Purpose, Not the Popularity

Many apps are marketed as “educational,” but that word can mean very different things. Is the app helping your child with a specific academic challenge? Supporting emotional development? Encouraging independent engagement in a safe way?

Try to evaluate the app's core purpose before getting swept up in ratings or recommendations. For example, if your child experiences stress after school and needs a quiet way to wind down, an audio-based app that encourages imagination and calm — like iOS or Android's LISN Kids, which offers original audiobooks and audio series for children aged 3–12 — might be a screen-free way to help them reset.

It’s about matching their needs with tools purposefully designed to meet them.

Examine the Design: Who Is It Really Built For?

Apps with excessive ads, complicated menus, or endless unlocking features might not be designed with your child’s wellbeing in mind. Ask yourself:

• Is it easy for my child to navigate without getting stuck?
• Does the app nudge them to spend more time on it than necessary?
• Are there any pop-ups, in-app purchases, or unexpected surprises?

Design matters. A clean, focused layout can be the difference between an enriching experience and an energy-draining one. A helpful guide on setting up a tablet safely for your child can give you a head start in managing this environment.

Look Beyond Age Ratings

It’s tempting to rely on app store age ratings, but unfortunately, they don’t tell the full story. Ratings offer a loose guideline — not a guarantee of appropriateness. A game rated for ages 6+ might be bursting with overwhelm or content that fuels anxiety.

Instead of relying solely on numbers, preview the content yourself. If possible, test the app for a few minutes or read thoughtful reviews from trusted sources. Want to go deeper? Learn how to talk to your child about confusing or scary content they might encounter — it’s just as important as the initial download.

Understand How the App Handles Data and Privacy

This is one area where tired parents often feel out of their depth — but your child’s data deserves protection. Does the app require an email address? Does it collect voice recordings, track location, or display targeted ads? Many parenting blogs and consumer watchdogs recommend looking for apps that clearly explain what they collect and give you control over settings.

Check if the app is part of a larger ecosystem designed for kids or merely a children’s version of a product built for adults. You can also explore resources on creating a safe digital space at home.

Is the Experience Empowering — or Draining?

Especially for children with learning needs or school-related stress, an app isn’t just a distraction. It can potentially support focus, confidence, and independence — or do the opposite.

Ask yourself: Does this app allow my child to feel successful? Or is it creating more screen dependency and frustration? Tools that encourage listening, curiosity, and internal reflection — like quiet podcast-style stories or digital books — tend to offer more emotional value than overstimulating games.

If your goal is to reduce screen stress at home, consider leaning into audio stories as a gentle alternative to screen time. Many families discover they can still harness technology — without giving up peace and connection.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About the Download

Just like you wouldn’t hand your child a new toy without checking the box, downloading an app involves a little intention — and a little parental energy, even if it’s in short supply. But you don’t have to be tech-savvy to make good calls. Stay centered on your child’s emotional and educational needs, and tune into how the app makes both of you feel — not just what it promises to teach.

Finding safe and empowering digital content may require a few extra minutes upfront. But the calm, confident moments that follow? Often worth every second.