Apps, Games, and Websites for Inventing

Building and creating things can help kids understand the world -- and a little guidance will keep you from having to call the roof repair service when things go awry. These apps, games, and websites will make inventing an amazing -- and safe -- experience for your little mad scientists. And if they want to learn about the forces and theories behind their projects, introduce them to the world of science with our list Best Science Games, Websites, and Apps for Kids.

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APP

Duckie Deck Trash Toys

age 3+

Discarded and found items inspire creativity, "upcycling."

Devices: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad (2014)
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APP

Toca Builders

age 6+

Well-done Minecraft-style app great for younger kids.

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APP

Toca Lab: Elements

age 6+

Budding chemists freeze, spin, and explode 118 elements.

Devices: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android, Kindle Fire (2013)
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WEBSITE

Design Squad Global

age 8+

Fun PBS site introduces kids to engineering.

URL: http://pbskids.org/designsquad (2012)
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APP

DIY Nano

age 8+

Spark big interest in tiny things on this super science app.

Devices: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad (2015)
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GAME

Minecraft

age 8+

Sandbox-style game with open online play fosters creativity.

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GAME

Style Lab: Fashion Design

age 8+

Creative game lets kids design and buy their own clothes.

Platforms: Nintendo DS, Nintendo DSi (2010)
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WEBSITE

DIY

age 9+

Maker community celebrates skill building and creativity.

URL: https://www.diy.org (2013)
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GAME

Algodoo

age 10+

2-D physics sandbox fosters awesome inventions.

Platforms: Mac, Windows (2009)
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GAME

Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts

age 10+

Imaginative adventure game lets players build vehicles.

Platforms: Xbox 360 (2008)
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GAME

Gamestar Mechanic

age 10+

Grand adventure teaches you to design your own games.

Platforms: Mac, Windows (2010)
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GAME

SimCity

age 10+

Exciting but technically flawed city-building simulation.

Platforms: Windows, Mac (2013)
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GAME

Kerbal Space Program

age 8+

Rocket-building sim helps determined kids reach the stars.

Platforms: Linux, Mac, Windows (2011)