🧠 15 Best AR Apps for Kids (That Parents Actually Approve)
Looking for educational, fun, and safe AR apps for kids? Augmented reality (AR) can transform screen time into an interactive learning experience — but only if you choose the right apps.
👇 Quick Summary:
The best AR apps for kids combine age-appropriate design with hands-on interaction to support learning, creativity, and movement. From dinosaur adventures to STEM puzzles, this list includes top-rated, parent-approved AR apps to spark your child’s imagination.
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✨ What Are the Best AR Apps for Kids?
AR (augmented reality) brings digital elements into the real world, offering immersive, hands-on experiences that go far beyond passive screen time. Here’s our list of the 15 best AR apps for kids — organized by age group and interest.
👶 Best AR Apps for Toddlers (Ages 2–4)
These apps focus on simple interactivity and visual delight — with no reading required.
1. Animal Safari AR
Explore the wild right from your living room!
- What it does: Kids scan the room and discover 3D animals walking across their floor.
- Why we love it: Great for teaching animal names and sounds.
- ✅ Ad-free, no in-app purchases
- 📱 Available on iOS and Android
2. AR Flashcards: Animal Alphabet
Augmented ABCs made fun.
- What it does: Use printable flashcards to project animals in AR as kids learn their letters.
- Bonus: Encourages physical interaction with the flashcards.
- 💡Pairs beautifully with early phonics lessons.
3. Quiver – 3D Coloring App
Watch your kids’ drawings come to life!
- What it does: Color a printable page, then scan it to see it move in AR.
- Why it’s great: Combines creativity with early tech exposure.
- 🎨 Print pages here
🎒 Best AR Apps for Elementary Kids (Ages 5–9)
These AR apps mix fun with learning — from dinosaurs to geography.
4. JigSpace
Perfect for curious builders and STEM lovers.
- What it does: Offers 3D step-by-step AR “how things work” lessons.
- Examples include: Jet engines, volcanoes, and space stations.
- 🔧 Supports STEM learning at home.
5. Merge EDU Explorer
STEM-focused learning with AR tools.
- What it does: View science simulations using a Merge Cube (purchase separately or DIY with a printable).
- 🧪 Perfect for hands-on homeschoolers.
- 💸 Merge Cube on Amazon
6. ARrrrrgh!
An AR pirate treasure hunt game!
- Why kids love it: They hide and search for virtual treasure chests around the house.
- Why parents approve: It gets them up and moving!
- 🏴☠️ Ideal for rainy days.
🧑🔬 Best AR Learning Apps for Ages 10+
These apps go deeper into educational content and creativity tools.
7. Civilisations AR (by BBC)
Explore ancient artifacts in your living room.
- What it does: Brings ancient tools, art, and historical relics into your space.
- 🎓 Excellent for history-loving tweens.
8. SkyView® Lite
Learn astronomy through AR.
- What it does: Point your device at the sky to identify stars, planets, and satellites.
- Bonus: Includes facts and mythologies about constellations.
- 🔭 A great evening activity for families.
9. Assemblr EDU
Create your own AR lessons or explore existing ones.
- Perfect for: Older kids and classrooms.
- 🛠️ Build, animate, and share your own AR scenes.
- ✅ Teacher-friendly and student-safe.
🎨 AR Creativity & Drawing Apps for All Ages
These apps mix art and tech — ideal for weekend projects or rainy day creativity.
10. SketchAR
Draw using AR guidance.
- What it does: Projects an outline onto paper so kids can trace it like a pro.
- Why it’s cool: Encourages hand-eye coordination and confidence in drawing.
- ✍️ Works best on tablets.
11. World Brush
Draw in the air, and leave virtual art for others to find.
- 🌎 Collaborative AR art around the globe.
- Use caution: Always supervise app use to ensure content is age-appropriate.
🦕 Best AR Apps for Dinosaur-Loving Kids
These apps are roaring good fun — and sneak in some learning, too.
12. Monster Park – Dinosaur World AR
Bring dinosaurs into your home.
- What it does: Projects lifelike dinosaurs into your environment.
- Why it’s fun: Kids can walk alongside them or take selfies with a T-Rex.
- 🦖 Available on iOS and Android
13. Dino AR
Simple, no-frills dinosaur interaction.
- Perfect for younger kids: Easy controls, no ads, pure fun.
- Educational element: Names, species facts, and habitats.
🎮 Fun & Games AR Apps for Kids
Not every app needs to be 100% educational — here are just-for-fun picks parents can feel good about.
14. Pokemon GO
The original AR blockbuster.
- Best for older kids: Combines real-world walking with digital collecting.
- 🗺️ Requires supervision, as it involves exploring public spaces.
15. Angry Birds AR: Isle of Pigs
Slingshot madness in your kitchen.
- Why it rocks: Kids can place the game anywhere — the floor, table, or couch.
- Watch out for: Device battery life — this one’s addictive.
🔗 Related App Lists You’ll Love
If your kids enjoy AR apps, they’ll also love:
- Best Toddler Apps That Don’t Need WiFi
- Best Storytelling and Writing Apps for Kids
- 10 Best Science Apps for Kids
- Best Fitness and Yoga Apps for Kids
❓ FAQ: AR Apps for Kids
Are AR apps safe for children?
Yes — most AR apps for kids are designed with safety in mind. Look for apps with no ads, no in-app purchases, and solid reviews from parents.
What do kids learn from AR apps?
Kids can explore topics like science, art, math, geography, and reading in an immersive way. AR boosts engagement and retention by blending the physical and digital.
Do AR apps require internet access?
Some do, especially those that download large 3D assets. However, several apps offer offline functionality once installed.
Are AR apps compatible with all devices?
Not all devices support AR. iOS users should check for ARKit compatibility, and Android users need devices with ARCore.
How can I set limits for AR playtime?
Use built-in screen time tools on your device. Also, encourage breaks, especially with movement-based apps like ARrrrrgh! or Pokemon GO.
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💬 Tell Us Your Favorites!
Have your kids tried any AR apps on this list? Drop a comment below and let us know what you think — or share a new one we should check out!