KIDS STUFF: Educational apps

AGES 1 TO 7

Word Wagon $3.99, iTunes.com): This app aims to helps kids learn letters and advanced spelling for words appropriate for preschoolers. It features more than 100 words that deal with subjects from animals to cars.

AGES 5 AND UP

Simplex Spelling HD -- Dolch Sight Words with Reverse Phonics ($4.99, iTunes.com): With many commonly used words, kids can learn how to spell, for both native and nonnative English speakers. It breaks down words through audio pronunciation and visualization.

AGES 6 TO 9

Madagascar Math Ops (free, itunes.com): Tune up your math skills by solving problems to save the Madagascar characters. This helps kids learn and build on their addition, subtraction, multiplication and division skills.

AGES 6 TO 12

Play123 (free, iTunes.com: Bring shapes, colors and numbers alive by playing these minigames filled with fun animation. Using various functions of an iPad, kids can stack, draw, roll, turn and more.