Mental health issues among children and teenagers are rising, but fortunately parents can tap into a range of apps and tools designed to help young people manage their mental well-being. Here are four top smartphone apps and tools to support kids' mental health.
Calm
Calm is a popular app known for its soothing meditations and sleep aids. But it also offers a variety of programs designed to help kids relax and focus, making it a great tool for reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm. Calm Kids features guided meditations, breathing exercises and sleep stories specifically tailored for kids to help reduce stress and improve focus.
Headspace for Kids
With exercises designed for different age groups, Headspace for Kids helps kids build a foundation of emotional resilience and well-being through mindfulness and meditation exercises. The app addresses age-specific categories: under 5, 6-8 and 9-12.
Smiling Mind
Smiling Mind offers a range of mindfulness programs that are both engaging and educational. Developed by psychologists and educators, this app provides age-appropriate content to help kids develop mindfulness skills and manage their emotions.
Breathe, Think, Do with Sesame
The Breathe, Think, Do with Sesame app is geared for younger children and features beloved Sesame Street characters. Through interactive activities, kids learn essential problem-solving and emotional regulation skills in a fun and engaging way.
Three Good Things
Created by a teenager, Three Good Things: A Happiness Journal is a simple, free journal app that enables users to record three positive experiences every day, with each entry limited to 100 characters or less. The app is based on brain research that suggests focusing on positive moments daily can increase happiness.
Raising kids and teens in a complex digital world isn’t easy. Get tips from experts in our Parents’ Resource Center and align your kids’ online access with your family’s values. Check out our Connect and Protect plans designed for kids here.