Here’s a list of popular, educational Chinese apps for children that we use, have tried in the past, or have been recommended by friends.
This list includes Chinese audiobooks and music apps, math, science, and writing, as well as dictionaries.
Based on my experience and knowledge as a pediatrician, I will also share my professional advice about using apps to learn Chinese language.
Chinese Apps for children: Important health considerations
Each Chinese app is supplemental and not a primary means of learning Mandarin Chinese.
Compared to real-life experiences and hands-on activities/games, Chinese apps are not as effective for expanding vocabulary in young children.
However, the Chinese apps can serve as additional sources of language exposure, especially for non-fluent families in a monolingual community.
Can my baby learn from Chinese apps?
Infants and young children learn best from person-to-person interaction. Please do not use screen-time for infants as language teaching tool.
With the exception of video chatting with relatives, the American Academy of Pediatrics generally recommends no screen-time for children under age 2.
Downsides of using apps for Chinese learning
As a pediatrician, I advise limiting screen time for health reasons. In my practice, I have seen numerous children who have used their iPad excessively. The consequences include negative effects on behavior, attention span, hands-on exploration, physical activity, obesity, vision, and sleep.
These adverse findings have been demonstrated by research.
Of these apps, Ximalaya and the various Chinese dictionaries are the only apps that we use regularly.
Otherwise, our family’s screen-time usage is limited due to health considerations and because we use many other Chinese learning resources.
Educational Chinese apps for kids
The titles here are linked to iTunes and Google Play so that you can preview the app. Some of these apps may not work with certain mobile devices, depending on the version of the operating system.
*Denotes default language is English; Mandarin Chinese must be selected via Settings.
I'm a Chinese-American mom who is having fun teaching my children Mandarin Chinese while re-learning the language myself. I love coming up with creative, hands-on, and educational activities, and I hope these ideas help your children have fun learning Chinese!
Amazing list. Thank you so much for sharing! I have spent hours and hours, days and days searching for CHALK principaled resources and have found so much more from your website! Thank you for sharing!!
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Janice says
Amazing list. Thank you so much for sharing! I have spent hours and hours, days and days searching for CHALK principaled resources and have found so much more from your website! Thank you for sharing!!
Betty says
Hi Janice! I’m so glad to hear that it’s helpful, and I really appreciate that you went out of your way to share! 🙂 Hope you’re enjoying the weekend!