Whether you have a student or child whose language skills are developing well or slowly, studies have proven that apps support language development. Speech pathologists promote the use of apps for language development and are even creating their own.
We have compiled this list of must-have language development apps which includes apps for children of various ages and developmental levels.
- Peekaboo Barn – $1.99
This simple app introduces children to animal names and sounds using the game peek-a-boo. Parents can begin playing games like peek-a-boo and pat-a-cake with their baby between the ages of six and nine months, as their child will start to play with and mimic sounds. Parents can use this app with their baby to begin his/her development and when the child reaches the toddler stage, he/she can use the app with supervision.
- Learn to Talk – $1.99
Appropriate for young toddlers just learning to speak or children with language delays, this app is easy-to-use and not overly stimulating. It includes a vocabulary of commonly used words and phrases each accompanied by illustrations. It’s currently supported in both French and English, thus it can also be used to learn a second language.
- ABC Alphabet Phonics – Free
Geared toward toddlers, preschoolers, and those just learning to talk, this app is quite basic, yet effective. Through sound, sight, and touch, children can learn the alphabet and a few other optional subjects. Users have praised the personalization options and the fact that the level of difficulty adjusts with the user.
- Articulation Station – up to $59.99
This app was created by a certified Speech-Language Pathologist and has an A+ in educational value on CommonSenseMedia.org. It aims to help children and adults learn to talk and improve their pronunciation. The first letter, “p”, is free, but users must pay for each additional letter or to upgrade to the Pro version.
- Baby Sign & Learn – up to $2.99
Research has shown that teaching babies sign language accelerates the development of verbal communication, while also improving emotional and cognitive development. Speech therapists recommend this app which teaches children five and under to sign in the signed language of your choice.
This app “reinforces early speech and language skills,” and expands the user’s vocabulary through interactive word association games. It earned “Special Needs App of the Day” on SpecialNeeds.com, but is entertaining and educational for all kids. It’s recommended that kids use it alongside an educator or parent.
- Proloquo2Go – up to $249.99
Geared toward children from kindergarten through grade 12, this app improves communication by letting users choose single words or combine words to form sentences to express their emotions, thoughts, and needs. The award-winning app is a top app for developing language and speech and is available in English, French, and Spanish. It’s excellent for individuals with Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and other diagnoses.
- See.Touch.Learn – up to $29.99
This is a tool for educators and parents of children with Autism and other special needs. Sets of flashcards, accompanied by lessons, can be edited and altered by speech therapists, educators, and parents according to the child’s level. This app has been certified by TeachersWithApps, rated an A+ in educational value, and is the recipient of several awards and mentions as the top app for special needs.
- Splingo’s Language Universe – $2.99
Designed by Speech and Language Therapists/Pathologists, this interactive game meets the Speaking and Listening area of the Common Core Standards. The app has a customizable option that allows users to improve their weaknesses in listening to directions and recognizing words and phrases. It’s great for kids of all ages and all language levels, and those with developmental delays or special needs.
Have you used any of these? Do you know of others not listed here that should be? Let us know!
