Playing Minecraft is very beneficial, and in some potentially surprising ways. Minecraft has captured the minds and imaginations of more kids than we can.
Minecraft is one of the most popular games in the world. The game is even suitable for all ages. One of the best-selling, independently developed and published video games, Minecraft immerses kids in creative thinking, geometry, and even a little geology as they build imaginative block structures. There are variety of tips and tricks, mods, add-ons, and other content to improve the game.
Does your child spend hours at their iPad or computer or game console playing Minecraft? Well, that may not be a bad thing. Targeted toward kids between the ages of 9 and 15, this simple building-blocks game is one the few that successfully educates and entertains players. While we don't encourage all-day play, your child may benefit from playing Minecraft for 30 minutes each night. From boosting their grades to improving their social skills, there are several reasons to make a little extra screen time for this popular video game.
Minecraft enhances Life Skills : Creativity, problem-solving, self-direction, and collaboration are just some of the many less-tangible, non-academic benefits. Minecraft provides benefits that will help kids succeed in college and future careers. Minecraft complements school skills: children playing Minecraft is improving their most basic skill sets - reading, writing, and math.
Here is a list of the best Minecraft apps for kids aren’t just engaging, but will capture their imagination and let them have fun.
Minecraft - This widely played and much loved multi platform virtual construction game is surprisingly unutilized as an educational tool. Build an entire world or just attempt to stay alive when the creepers come out to play at night. There’s so much to do in the game, with various server types to choose from. If you’re hoping to kill some time, try it out.
Features
- Virtual construction game with block placement and adventure elements.
- Randomly generated worlds with a variety of characters and resources.
- Enables crafting of a wide range of objects from collected resources.
- Opportunities for collaborative learning and creative problem-solving.
- Special educational version, Minecraft: Education Edition, designed for learning.
Pros
- Engages students in 21st-century skills like collaboration and creativity.
- Suitable for kids age 8 and up, with non-violent, educational content.
- Versatile in educational applications, such as exploring math concepts and historical recreations.
- Encourages peer teaching and active participation in learning activities.
- Available on various platforms, including mobile devices.
Cons
- Pocket Edition is more limited compared to PC or console versions.
- Requires time investment from educators to learn and effectively integrate into teaching.
- Potential for misuse by students if not properly supervised.
Read the parent's guide on how to keep your kids safe on Minecraft.
Devices: iOS, Android, Windows, Android Fire
Price: Free
If we missed any of the Best Minecraft Apps for Kids, tell us about them!
Minecraft: Education Edition helps prepare students for the future workplace, building skills like collaboration, communication, critical thinking and systems thinking. The open learning environment gives students the freedom to experiment, encouraging creative self-expression and problem-solving.
Minecraft: Education Edition takes everything teachers love about Minecraft and adds new collaboration tools, classroom controls, and more. The Classroom mode gives teachers a map view of the world and the ability to interact with the students in one central location; if a student wanders away from the group, the teacher can easily bring the avatar (student) back to the working area.
Features
- Game-based learning platform with over 600 pre-built lessons aligned to educational standards.
- Covers a wide range of subjects, including STEM, coding, history, and language arts.
- Classroom mode for teachers with map view, student interaction, and control options.
- Professional Learning Community for educators to share and learn.
- Supports teaching mathematical concepts, historical events, and language learning.
Pros
- Enhances creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
- Safe and inclusive platform suitable for a wide age range of students.
- Empowers students to discover, create, and experiment in a familiar environment.
- Provides unique opportunities for hands-on and interactive learning.
- Flexible and adaptable to various educational goals and teaching styles.
Cons
- Requires time investment from educators to learn effective integration.
- Limited worlds specifically geared towards certain learning objectives.
- Lacks customisation mods compared to the original Minecraft game.
- Optimal use varies in complexity, which may challenge some educators.
- Best used as a reinforcement tool rather than for constructing new knowledge.
Devices: iOS, Android
Price: Free
Start building and show the world your best game and constructions. Block Craft is a free game for the whole family: from kids, boys and girls, to adults.
Features
- Building game: Lots of different constructions. Who will have the best building?
- Fun game: Play with animals in the village is so fun!
- Visit the city built by your friends
- Perfect game for the family
- Incredible constructions: house with a room and a kitchen? A castle for 20 people? or even the death-star and Eiffel Tower?
Pros
- Multiplayer games: you can play online and help your friend building!
- New: adopt and play with animals!
- Multiplayer mode
Cons
- Inappropriate user content has been reported in the app
Blockcraft is slightly simpler than Minecraft, which means the interface is less complex, which means the screen is less cluttered.
Devices: iOS, Android
Price: Free
4. Addons for Minecraft
(Android, iPhone, iPad)
Addons for Minecraft is an app for Minecraft. It features a variety of add-ons. These nifty little mods let you all kinds of things. You can change how mobs look, how your world looks, and more. You can add special items, entire worlds, and more. It’s easy enough to use. Simply pick the add-on that you want and hit install. It should be available the next time you open the game. There are some additional instructions in the app as well. There are a lot of interesting mods here. You can pick it up for free with no in-app purchases. They are all free to download and use and some of the selections are pretty nice.
Features
- App for downloading Minecraft PE add-ons, shaders, texture packs, and skins.
- Includes a variety of mods for Minecraft, enhancing the gaming experience.
- Ability to bookmark add-ons for future downloads.
- Offers a chat feature for user interaction.
- Users can create and share their own Minecraft content.
Pros
- Free and easy-to-use interface for downloading Minecraft add-ons.
- Variety of add-ons available, from puzzles to shaders, enhancing gameplay.
- Capability to import mods directly into Minecraft.
- Regular updates with new mods and add-ons.
- Option for users to recommend and request specific mods.
Cons
- Chat feature can be inappropriate for kids and requires moderation.
- Contains ads which can be intrusive and sometimes glitchy.
- Some mods may not work correctly or replace original Minecraft content.
- Occasional issues with downloading and importing mods.
- Limited updates on certain types of mods, like superhero themes.
Devices: iOS, Android
Price: Free with in-app purchases
World of Cubes is a Minecraft - inspired game. The main goal of the game is to survive in a surreal and interesting world, along with creating anything from your imagination. The game consists of surviving in a world completely made of cubes. The game consists of surviving in a world completely made of cubes.
Features
- Game similar to Minecraft with crafting, building, and survival elements.
- Includes a multiplayer mode with both public and private options.
- Offers skins, texture packs, and mods for customisation.
- Survival mode with various mobs and resource gathering.
- Option to create and explore different biomes and structures.
Pros
- Free alternative to Minecraft with similar gameplay.
- Engaging graphics and a variety of creative tools for building.
- Ability to interact with other players and share creations.
- User-friendly interface.
- Regular updates with new content and improvements.
Cons
- Not suitable for unsupervised use by kids.
- Issues with lag and app stability, causing frequent disruptions in gameplay.
- Some mods and addons may not function properly or replace existing game content.
- Ads can be intrusive and detract from the gaming experience.
- Limited customisation and features compared to Minecraft.
Devices: iOS, Android
Price: Free with in-app purchases
6. Minecraft Explorer Pro
(iPhone, iPad)
Officially supported by Mojang, the developer of Minecraft. This is a companion app, not a game, but is useful for reference. It allows users to:
Features
- Comprehensive list of Minecraft items, recipes, potions, mobs, and tools.
- Regular updates for new game developments across desktop, pocket, and console platforms.
- Built-in search tool for quickly finding specific items or information.
- Links to detailed Wiki pages for in-depth information on each item.
- Access to a list of updated multiplayer servers with voting and sharing options.
Pros
- User-friendly interface with easy navigation.
- In-depth guides and information beneficial for both new and experienced players.
- Regularly updated content ensures relevance and accuracy.
- Ability to share server information with friends through social media and email.
- Includes videos and external links for additional learning resources.
Cons
- Some features require additional purchases to unlock.
Devices: iOS
Price: Free
7. Skin Editor For Minecraft
(Android)
Minecraft Skin Editor is another of the more powerful Minecraft apps. You can design custom skins with this Minecraft skin editor. Using this app, you can create, upload and share Minecraft skins on-the-go. Get creative and design an epic skin for your character. The easiest way to create and download free Minecraft skins for your character. It’s a free download.
Features
- Lots of customisation options
- Skin management
- Skin editting
Pros
- Free
Cons
- Contain ads
- Can be unstable and glitchy
Devices: iOS, Android
Price: Free
Minecraft Earth is a popular game that lets you play Minecraft in the real world. Yup, its got the Pokemon Go Vibes to keep your head rolling out in the public. Just pop out your phone and start building Minecraft stuff in your neighborhood or when in the park. The game uses augmented reality to merge elements of the Minecraft games with the real world.
Devices: Android
Price: Free
Frequently Asked Questions
How can Minecraft be used as an educational tool in classrooms?
Minecraft can be used in classrooms to enhance learning in various subjects. For example, in history classes, students can recreate historical sites or events. In science, they can model ecosystems or learn about renewable resources. Mathematics concepts like geometry and volume can be taught through building projects. Minecraft also fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and collaboration among students.
What are the benefits of using Minecraft in education?
- Enhanced Engagement: The game's interactive nature keeps students engaged and interested in the learning material.
- Creativity and Innovation: Students can express their creativity and innovate within the game's environment.
- Collaboration Skills: Minecraft encourages teamwork and communication, as students often work together on projects.
- Technical Skills: It introduces students to basic computer skills and, in some cases, to coding principles.
- Problem-Solving: The game presents challenges requiring critical thinking and problem-solving strategies.
Are there specific educational versions of Minecraft available for schools?
There is a specific version called Minecraft: Education Edition, which is designed for classroom use. This edition includes features tailored for education, like classroom collaboration tools, non-player characters that teachers can use to guide lessons, and a wide range of downloadable content with educational themes. It also offers a secure environment for students and is accessible on various platforms including Windows, macOS, and iPad.
Minecraft comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Minecraft is a game that spans many ages -- and has infinite possibilities. Try these other free games for kids that will help them to build, learn, play, and explore beyond the bounds of Minecraft.
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