- iPhone Smartphone Apps for Kids - S.McGrath
Acceleration, speed, momentum, distance, force, motion, magnetism, elasticity -- These are all basic physics concepts that children encounter through interaction with the world around them. Physics simulation games and apps can help children further explore and make sense of these experiences.
My six-year-old artistic daughter in particular loves physics apps, but my three-year-old daughter is gaining in her ability to manipulate the tasks presented in the following physics-based games.
Top Recommended Physics Apps and Games
In a review of Top Fun Educational iPhone Apps for Kids, I recommended SimplePhysics, a fun construction engineering game that remains one of my children's favorites. Since SimplePhysics was such a hit, we soon added the following physics apps to our collection.
- SimplePhysics. Design complex structures from tree houses to ferris wheels. Keep the price of construction within budget. Your design is simulated with a sophisticated physics engine to test if it will meet weight-bearing and other requirements.
- Touch Physics. Draw shapes to move a wheel according to physical laws.
- Geared. A puzzle strategy game in which you organize various sized gears to form a working chain.
- Levers. An interactive art and physics simulation. Hang and keep objects in delicate balance.
Touch Physics and Geared both have sequels.
More Fun Math and Science Simulation Apps
The entertainment apps use physics-based game play techniques.
- Max and the Magic Marker. The game play in this app reminds me of techniques used in Touch Physics, but with a background story.
- Scribblenauts. This classic game also has gaming elements that remind me of the physics techniques used in Touch Physics, but with more colorful character fun.
Science Simulation Online Games
In addition to apps, my children also take advantage of online science simulations and games to aid their understanding of physics concepts. In Online Science Games and Interactive Simulations, I listed several useful websites for science simulations and free online science games.
A Kid-Tough iPod/iPhone Case
When I discovered how much my young children enjoy the iPod, I was somewhat concerned about possible damage they might do to the device. Here's what I recommend and have found effective for warding the iPod against enthusiastic use.
The Griffin FlexGrip Action case covers your iPod/iPhone in grippable rubber with thick rubber edges and a wrist strap for attaching the device to your child. Anti-Glare Film gives your iPod screen an anti-scratch surface.
You might also enjoy:
- Smartphone Apps for Kids
- Entomology: Bug Science Printables and Online Games
- Using the Scientific Method with Kids
Sara McGrath - Sara is a veteran homeschool mom of three, Usborne consultant, and the author of Unschooling: A Lifestyle of Learning.
