Skillshare

Skillshare

app

Everyone, 2015, Education

WISE
84%

WISE Score

4.8

App Store

Netflix for creative skills—thousands of professionally-led classes in art, design, music, and more for motivated learners.

Where to Find

App Store
App Store
Google Play
Google Play
Screenwise Verdict

Skillshare is legitimately excellent if your kid is the type who wants to learn animation, improve their drawing, or figure out how to use Procreate. It's not entertainment—it's education that happens to be delivered through an app.

The value is real: professionally-taught classes, no ads, offline viewing, and a huge range of creative topics. Common Sense Media is right that kids feel empowered choosing their own learning path. But here's the thing—this works best for self-motivated learners who already have a project or interest in mind. If your kid isn't already asking to learn digital art or calligraphy, they're probably not going to spontaneously start browsing Skillshare.

The subscription cost is the main watch-out. At roughly $30/month after the trial, it's a real commitment. Make sure you're getting value before it auto-renews. But if your kid is genuinely engaged? This beats random YouTube tutorials by a mile.

Age Fit

Best for ages 10+ who have specific creative interests and the patience for instructional videos. Younger kids (8-9) can use it with parental guidance if they're motivated. Adults love it too—this isn't just for kids.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
82

Educational platform focused on creative skill-building with passionate instructors. Common Sense Media notes it fosters genuine passion in kids when they have interest in the content. Empowering self-directed learning model with no toxic social dynamics or chaotic pacing. Loses points only for being a subscription service that requires adult oversight.

Imaginative
88

Massive library of creative courses spanning drawing, animation, music, writing, design, photography, and more. Explicitly designed to teach creative tools (Procreate, Illustrator, Photoshop) and develop artistic skills. Encourages hands-on projects and self-expression across dozens of creative domains. This is literally a platform built for imagination and creative exploration.

Safe
75

No ads, which is excellent. Has a kids mode available. However, it's a subscription model with auto-renewal ($30/month after trial), which requires parental management. Content is professionally curated and educational, so no inappropriate material concerns. Main safety consideration is the financial commitment and ensuring kids don't sign up independently. No social features or user-generated content to worry about.

Enriching
90

This is pure skill-building and personal growth. Professionally-led lessons across creative, technical, and professional domains. Teaches industry-standard tools and practical skills. Learners can progress at their own pace with offline viewing. Common Sense Media highlights how it empowers kids to choose classes and develop genuine interests. High cognitive and creative development value.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • Massive library of creative courses taught by passionate professionals who actually know their craft
  • Teaches industry-standard tools (Procreate, Photoshop, Illustrator) that translate to real skills
  • Self-paced learning that empowers kids to explore genuine interests without pressure
  • No ads, and content is professionally curated so you're not wading through amateur YouTube tutorials
  • Offline viewing means learning can happen anywhere—car rides, waiting rooms, or couch time after homework
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What to Watch For

  • Subscription runs about $30/month after the free trial, so set a calendar reminder or you'll get auto-billed
  • Best for kids who already have a creative interest—not a browsing-for-fun app
  • Some courses assume basic familiarity with tools or concepts, so beginners might need guidance picking classes
  • Kids mode exists but you'll want to manage the account yourself to avoid accidental premium sign-ups

Conversation Starters

  • "What's something you've always wanted to learn how to make or draw?"
  • "If you could take any class on here, which skill would be most useful for a project you're working on?"
  • "What's the difference between watching a tutorial and actually practicing the skill yourself?"
  • "Do you think learning from videos is easier or harder than learning in a classroom?"

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