2015
WISE Score
App Store
Physics experimentation that feels like playing with a high-end digital toy box rather than a textbook.
Simple Machines is a masterclass in how to make an educational app that doesn't feel like homework. It's a digital workbench where kids can poke, prod, and break things to see how the world is put together.
By 2026 standards, it's a bit of a classic, but its timeless art style and focused physics play haven't aged a day. If you want an app that respects your kid's intelligence and your privacy, this is a top-tier pick.
Perfect for the 4–10 crowd. Preschoolers will love the sounds and the 'smashy' bits, while elementary kids will actually start to understand the mechanical trade-offs.
It is pure curiosity and scientific exploration. No stress, no timers, and no weird competitive loops—just a clean space to see how physics works.
The sandbox nature allows kids to treat physics like a toy. Whether they are destroying a castle or sending satellites into orbit, the app rewards 'what if' thinking.
Tinybop is the gold standard here. No ads, no third-party tracking, and no in-app purchases to accidentally tap. It is a locked-down, private environment.
It turns abstract STEM concepts like 'mechanical advantage' into something you can touch and feel. The multi-language labels and downloadable handbooks add serious educational weight.
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