Best educational apps for a restless 6yo?

Nov 241 min read

My son has ADHD and online school was a nightmare for him. But we've found that certain apps actually help him focus better than traditional learning? Like Duolingo for reading, Khan Academy Kids for math. The games keep his attention in a way worksheets never did.

Anyone else use apps intentionally as a learning tool rather than just... preventing meltdowns while you make dinner? Curious what's worked for other people's kids.

9 comments288 views

Comments(9)

LLuca P.Regular15h ago

This is the opposite of 'screens bad.' This is 'screens as accommodation.' Pretty different thing and honestly smart parenting to figure out what learning style your kid needs.

PPatrick W.Regular14h ago

Have you talked to his school about what's working at home? They might adapt their approach if they know games keep him engaged. Or at least stop fighting you about screen time in his IEP.

BBen D.Regularjust now

Online school vs targeted educational apps are totally different though. Online school for ADHD kids is torture (synchronous, rigid format). Apps let him control pace and take breaks. That's the key difference.

RRaj P.Regular13h ago

Khan Academy Kids is actually solid for engaged learning. The interactivity hits different for ADHD brains than static content. You're not replacing school, you're finding what tools work for YOUR kid.

KKurt D.Regular11h ago

Have you looked into Dynalytics or Khan Academy Pro? Some ADHD-friendly options are actually pretty solid for building skills while keeping engagement up. Your son might learn better this way than traditional tutoring.

MMatt W.Regular3h ago

This is actually a really valid use of apps - they're tools for learning, not just time-wasting. Duolingo gamifying reading for an ADHD kid is genuinely smart. The engagement IS the learning mechanism here.

SSam P.Regularjust now

Using apps intentionally for ADHD kids makes total sense. If Duolingo keeps your son focused on reading instead of worksheets causing a meltdown, that's not lazy parenting that's understanding how his brain works.

BBrad N.Regularjust now

The fact that you're being intentional about which apps and why makes ALL the difference. You're not just handing him a device, you're using tools that match his brain. That's exactly what accommodation means.

TTravis N.Regularjust now

Khan Academy Kids especially is designed with attention stuff in mind. Short lessons, interactive, rewards for progress. For ADHD kids who struggle with traditional worksheets, this actually makes sense. Not all screen time is equal.