With the iPad now available to the public as of April 3, 2010, children are enjoying many of the apps and games currently being developed for the new Apple device. Also, many games originally developed as iPhone and iPod Touch apps can be migrated to the iPad.
With titles ranging from arcade-type games involving speed and competition to educational games that engage children's creativity and curiosity, there is a wide selection of iPad games for kids. Popular game developers like EA Mobile and Gameloft have recently released adaptations of their already popular games, such as Need for Speed and N.O.V.A, for the iPad.
The iPad's multi-touchscreen and motion sensitive user interface allows game interaction to be smooth and varied. Individuals already familiar with Apple's accelerometer on the iPhone and iPod Touch apps may find the larger 9.7 inch screen on the iPad even more suitable for gaming purposes.
In this video, you can see one of the many ways that the iPad platform is used to run apps specifically for the entertainment and educational development of kids. Here you can see a conceptualized walk through of an upcoming storybook app for the iPad by Tochoo. This app will permit children to select multiple story lines, develop characters and choose alternate endings.
Educational Games for the iPad
Educational games, such as Red Fish, developed by 'FreshPlanet', make use of the iPad's size and intuitive interface technology. Apps similar to Red Fish utilize the iPad's touchscreen to incorporate language, mathematics, science and music, set to an entertaining format that interests children of a variety of ages.
Many of the games and apps are also available in iPhone, and iPod Touch versions.
iPad Games for Toddlers
Even very young children can enjoy playing and learning with games designed for the iPad. Game designers have created interactive, visually appealing applications for Apple's tablet device. Here are a few examples of apps appropriate for children under 4 years of age, all available on iTunes or at the AppStore:http://www.bestkidsapps.com/ages-0-4/best-ipad-apps-for-toddlers/
- Dr. Seuss' ABCs
- FirstWords - Animals
- Interactive Alphabet
- ClickySticky
- Fish School HD
iPad Games for Grade Schoolers
This is a short list of games for kids ranging in age from 5-8 years old but fun for older kids too. Some games may have free versions and all vary in cost. They are available for purchase on iTunes and at the AppStore. http://www.bestkidsapps.com/category/ages-5-8/
- Draw With Stars
- Fruit Ninja
- Doodle Jump
- Frogs and Fireflies
- Fling!
References
Fast Facts
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Migrating games
Many games currently avilable as iPhone apps can be migrated to the iPad
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Multi-touch interface
The iPad's 9.7 inch screen is useful for handheld gaming
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Types of games
Educational, as well as arcade-type titles are available for the iPad
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Accelerometer
Many games and apps use the iPad's accelerometer feature as one of the primary ways to interact with the game
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Educational games
Interactive storybook apps are also available for the iPad
