Nothing brings a smile to a parent’s face quite like the thought of sneaking in some education while their kids are having a blast. We’re talking about books, games, and toys that are so entertaining that your little ones won’t even realize they’re absorbing knowledge. It’s a bit of a clever tactic, but who can blame a parent for wanting to make learning enjoyable? We like to call it “edutainment”—a delightful mix of education and entertainment. After all, who can argue with that?
From charming books that introduce kids to historical figures to classic games revamped for today’s savvy youth, the items listed below promise to engage your children while boosting their smarts. Before you know it, they’ll be brimming with knowledge—perhaps even in a second language!
Learning Toys, Apps & Games for Toddlers
Fisher-Price Laugh and Learn Smart Stages Puppy
Every little one needs a cuddly companion, and this puppy is perfect. You can adjust its learning levels according to your child’s age. With just a flip of a switch, the first stage introduces over 100 essential words, the alphabet, and some colors as babies interact with its soft body. The second level explores basic counting and body parts, while the third encourages toddlers to keep learning through songs and games that enhance their vocabulary. This adorable pup also helps little ones grasp the concept of cause and effect as they see how their actions influence its responses. Learning has never been so adorable!
$13 AT TARGET
Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. My First Microscope
$18
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VTech Touch and Teach Word Book
$22
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Learning Toys, Apps & Games for Older Kids
Adventure Academy Online Learning Platform for Kids 8-13
From the makers of ABCmouse, this interactive online learning program helps kids aged 8-13 explore a virtual campus while creating avatars and making friends. With a single membership—available monthly or at a discounted yearly rate—you can have up to three avatars, making it perfect for multiple children to enjoy. They can explore the library, swim in the pool, and shop in the market while diving into a variety of educational videos and games covering subjects like math, science, social studies, and reading. Interested in anatomy? Absolutely. Astronomy? For sure. Typing? Yes! Plus, a new feature called WordPlay, led by award-winning author Jamal Carter, guides kids in writing their own stories. This “screen time” is guilt-free, allowing kids to learn while having fun instead of scrolling through endless YouTube clips.
$10 AT ADVENTURE ACADEMY
Insect Lore Butterfly Garden
$40
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Match It Spelling Puzzle Game
$13
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Learning Resources Swat a Sight Word
$12
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Duolingo ABC: Learn To Read
If you’re on the hunt for a fun way to kickstart your child’s reading journey, look no further than Duolingo ABC. This free app is tailored for kids aged 3-6 and covers the fundamentals of reading. With over 300 engaging lessons focused on the alphabet, phonics, and sight words, it’s designed for young users to enjoy independently, with no in-app purchases. Features include personalized handwriting lessons, illustrated stories with real-time feedback, and sound blending exercises to help decode simple words. By August’s end, the app will even introduce first-grade material, making it ideal for a range of ages.
AT DUOLINGO ABC
Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum Season 1
$10
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Monopoly
$24
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ThinkFun Gravity Maze Marble Run
$30
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To discover even more fun learning options, don’t forget to check out our gift guide for kids of all ages at this link.
VTech Touch and Teach Word Book
With the help of two lively characters, Cody and Cora, this interactive book reads to your little ones while responding to their touches. It expands vocabulary and teaches the ABCs, colors, and sounds all on its own. One satisfied mom shared that the voice not only reads words aloud but also describes them, enhancing phonics skills and including a music mode. Perfect for travel or errands, this book makes learning fun anywhere!
$22 AT AMAZON
Insect Lore Butterfly Garden
For science-loving kids who enjoy outdoor adventures, this reusable butterfly garden includes a mesh habitat, caterpillar feeder, and everything needed to witness the metamorphosis of caterpillars into butterflies. With a simple guide, your child can monitor this fascinating process over three weeks, documenting growth along the way.
$40 AT AMAZON
Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum Season 1
Why not gift your kids books filled with fun and adventure that teach them about history? Based on the popular series Ordinary People Change the World, the PBS show Xavier Riddle follows young heroes as they time travel to meet historical figures like Rosa Parks and Albert Einstein. Each 11-minute episode addresses relatable challenges while inspiring kids to discover their own potential.
$10 AT AMAZON
Monopoly
This classic game is perfect for teaching kids money management skills while having fun. The Junior version is ideal for younger players, while older kids can enjoy various themed versions, from Frozen to Toy Story. For those with shorter attention spans, a quick-play version allows for an entire game in just 10 minutes!
$24 AT AMAZON
Match It Spelling Puzzle Game
This game blends puzzle-solving with spelling practice, featuring self-correcting pieces that only fit together when they match. Ideal for preschoolers, this game enhances letter recognition while also honing their focus and concentration skills. With 30 puzzles to explore, it’s a fantastic resource for building a strong literacy foundation.
$13 AT AMAZON
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Summary
Finding ways to sneak in learning while keeping your child entertained is possible with these engaging apps, toys, and shows. From interactive books to educational games, these resources ensure that your kids are not just having fun, but also gaining valuable knowledge. Whether they’re exploring history with Xavier Riddle or practicing reading with Duolingo ABC, learning can be a joyful experience.
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