In today’s tech-filled world, it’s easy for screen time to become passive entertainment. But what if it could be something more something hands-on, creative, and inspiring?
Enter Maker and DIY apps for kids: platforms that turn your child’s device into a launchpad for building, designing, coding, and crafting. These apps do more than keep kids busy they help them develop real-world skills, boost problem-solving, and nurture their creativity.
We’ve rounded up the 10 best DIY and maker apps for kids, including top picks for design, game development, invention, and coding. Whether your child is an aspiring engineer, storyteller, or artist, these apps are safe, fun, and packed with learning potential. And topping our list is the all-in-one creative learning platform: DIY.org.
1. DIY.org – The Ultimate Creative Platform for Kids
Best for: Ages 5–16 What it does: Everything from crafts and science to animation and game design Why it's #1: Safe, ad-free, skill-building, and community-driven
DIY.org is where curiosity meets creativity. This platform is designed specifically for kids and tweens to explore their interests through hundreds of hands-on projects and skill challenges across art, science, coding, storytelling, and more.
Kids earn digital badges, complete guided workshops, and share their creations in a safe, moderated online community. With a focus on fun-first learning, DIY.org makes it easy for kids to build confidence while doing what they love no ads, no pressure, just pure creative play.
2. Makers Empire 3D – Design Thinking for Kids
Best for: Ages 4–13 What it does: 3D modeling and printing
Makers Empire introduces younger kids to the world of 3D design with an easy-to-use interface and a library of design challenges. Used in classrooms around the world, this app teaches design thinking, iteration, and problem-solving skills that prepare kids for the future of tech and engineering.
3. MIT App Inventor – Build Real Android Apps
Best for: Ages 12+ What it does: App development with visual coding
Developed by MIT, this tool gives kids and teens the power to create fully functional Android apps through a block-based programming interface. It’s a perfect next step for kids who love tech and want to dive deeper into real-world computer science.
4. Tinkercad – 3D Modeling Made Simple
Best for: Ages 10+ What it does: 3D design, electronics, and coding
Tinkercad by Autodesk is a browser-based app that introduces beginners to CAD, electronics, and circuits. It’s widely used in schools and ideal for kids interested in engineering or robotics. With an intuitive interface, kids can create everything from keychains to Arduino-powered inventions.
5. Scratch – Code Your Own Games and Stories
Best for: Ages 8–16 What it does: Game design and animation through block coding
Created by MIT, Scratch lets kids create interactive games, animations, and stories by simply dragging and snapping together code blocks. It fosters logic, creativity, and storytelling, and the global community encourages kids to learn from one another.
6. Bloxels – Build Video Games with Bricks
Best for: Ages 6–13 What it does: Game design using physical and digital tools
Bloxels lets kids design their own video games by arranging physical blocks that represent characters, levels, and power-ups. The app scans their designs and brings them to life digitally. It’s a tactile, highly visual way to teach game logic and creativity.
7. Inventioneers – Rube Goldberg Fun with Physics
Best for: Ages 6–12 What it does: Build chain-reaction machines to solve puzzles
Inventioneers is all about inventing silly solutions to serious problems. Kids use gears, ropes, magnets, and more to create complex contraptions and learn about cause and effect, physics, and creative thinking in a whimsical way.
8. Osmo – Hands-On Learning with Tech
Best for: Ages 5–10 What it does: Combines real-world play with digital learning
Osmo bridges physical creativity and digital feedback using a clever mirror and base system that turns tablets into interactive makerspaces. With apps like Osmo Masterpiece and Osmo Pizza Co., kids can draw, build, and learn math while playing.
9. Roblox Studio – Design and Script 3D Games
Best for: Ages 10+ What it does: Game creation platform with scripting tools
Roblox Studio lets kids and teens create full 3D games that can be published and shared globally. It’s a robust tool for learning Lua scripting, 3D modeling, and game economics ideal for aspiring game developers, but parental guidance is a must due to open community features.
10. Thinkrolls Play & Code – Logic Puzzles for Little Creators
Best for: Ages 4–8 What it does: Intro to coding and critical thinking
Thinkrolls offers colorful puzzle games that teach problem-solving, sequencing, and logic through fun characters and physics-based obstacles. It’s a great primer for younger kids before diving into more advanced maker tools.
How to Pick the Right Maker App for Your Child
Age matters – Pick an app that matches your child’s developmental stage.
Creative freedom is key – Look for platforms that offer open-ended exploration, not just rigid tasks.
Safety first – Choose ad-free apps with privacy controls and safe community spaces.
Interests over trends – Whether your child loves crafts, code, or cartoons, there’s a maker app to match.
Let Kids Create Their World
Maker and DIY apps aren’t just educational they’re empowering. They let kids turn screen time into build time, connect with other creators, and explore their passions in meaningful, skill-building ways.
If you’re looking for an all-in-one creative learning platform that’s safe, engaging, and packed with possibilities, DIY.org is the clear winner.
