Elevate

Elevate

app

Everyone, 2014, Education

WISE
68%

WISE Score

4.8

App Store

Brain training app that turns vocabulary, math, and memory drills into daily games—productive screen time, but still screen time.

Where to Find

App Store
App Store
Google Play
Google Play
Screenwise Verdict

Elevate is one of the better brain training apps out there—it's actually educational, has a free version, and doesn't bombard you with ads. CNET and the Washington Post gave it props, and Common Sense Media confirms the games feel meaningful.

That said, let's be real: this is basically a digital workbook with better UX. The gamification is slick enough to keep kids coming back, but that's also the concern—Internet Matters warns that the daily streaks and achievements can lead to more screen time than you bargained for. And while the app claims 90%+ of users see improvements, the science on brain training apps actually transferring to real-world skills is mixed at best.

If your kid needs targeted practice in vocabulary, math, or grammar (think: test prep, weak spots in school), this is a solid tool. If you're hoping it'll make them smarter in some general way, temper expectations. It's productive screen time, sure, but it's still screen time—and it's not exactly riveting. Most kids won't choose this over YouTube unless you're enforcing it.

Bottom line: Good for motivated learners or structured practice time. Not a miracle worker, but way better than TikTok.

Age Fit

Best for ages 10-17 (and adults) who are motivated to improve specific skills—younger kids might need parental guidance to stay engaged. The content isn't age-gated by complexity; it adapts, so even high schoolers prepping for SATs could benefit.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
82

Brain training app with a positive, encouraging tone focused on self-improvement. No toxic elements, promotes growth mindset and daily practice habits. The gamification could potentially lead to increased screen time (per Internet Matters), but the content itself is constructive and emotionally healthy.

Imaginative
58

40+ games provide variety in cognitive challenges, but they're fundamentally drill-and-practice exercises rather than truly creative or exploratory experiences. The adaptive difficulty and personalized workouts show some smart design, but this isn't about building, creating, or open-ended thinking—it's about optimizing existing skills through repetition.

Safe
71

Has a kids mode available, which is good. Free version exists (tap X to skip trial), but the 7-day trial and premium upsell model creates some pressure. No ads mentioned in the free version, but the constant push toward premium features and gamification mechanics (streaks, achievements) are designed to keep users engaged. Not predatory, but definitely engineered for retention. Common Sense Media notes it's a 'beneficial app to spend time on' but warns about screen time monitoring.

Enriching
76

Solid educational value with evidence-based cognitive training in vocabulary, math, grammar, memory, and processing speed. The app claims 90%+ of users notice improvements, and Common Sense describes games as 'meaningful educational engagement.' Created with educational experts using proven techniques. However, the actual real-world transfer of 'brain training' games to practical skills remains debated in cognitive science—these are skill drills, not deep learning experiences.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • Actually educational—40+ games targeting real skills like vocabulary, mental math, grammar, and memory with evidence-based techniques
  • Personalized workouts adapt to your kid's level and progress, so it stays challenging without being frustrating
  • Free version exists (just tap the X during trial signup), so you're not locked into paying
  • Could genuinely help with test prep, writing skills, or building confidence in weak areas—Common Sense calls it 'meaningful educational engagement'
  • Better than mindless scrolling—if your kid's going to be on a device, at least they're practicing something useful
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What to Watch For

  • Gamification is designed to hook users with streaks, achievements, and daily reminders—Internet Matters specifically warns about increased screen time
  • Premium features are constantly dangled in front of you; the free version is limited and you'll feel it
  • This is drill-and-practice, not creative thinking—it's mental pushups, not building something new
  • Kids might find it boring if they're not self-motivated; this isn't Roblox-level engagement

Conversation Starters

  • "Which game feels hardest for you right now? Why do you think that is?"
  • "Have you noticed any of these skills showing up in real life—like doing math in your head at the store?"
  • "Do you feel like you're actually getting better, or does it just feel like busy work?"
  • "What would make this app more fun for you? Or is it fine as-is?"

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