Top AI Apps for Teens – Reviewed by Parents

In today's tech-driven world, AI-powered apps can help teens (13–16) learn, create, and even care for their well-being. As parents, we want these tools to be educational, fun, and above all safe. Below is a hand-picked list of highly rated AI apps in education, creativity, and mental wellness – each with a friendly rundown of what it does, and notes on privacy, safety, screen-time, and cost. All apps are available on both iOS and Android for easy download. Let’s dive in!

1. ChatGPT – AI Study Buddy & Creative Assistant

What it does: ChatGPT answers questions, explains topics, brainstorms ideas, and chats naturally. Teens use it for homework help, writing prompts, and creative thinking.

Why parents like it:

  • Designed for 13+ with filters for explicit content

  • Free to use; optional ChatGPT Plus costs ~$20/month

  • Emphasise safe use (no personal info) and supervised usage

2. Khan Academy (with Khanmigo AI Tutor)

What it does: Offers video lessons and practice in school subjects. Khanmigo, the AI tutor, helps guide learning with smart prompts and questions.

Why parents like it:

  • Trusted nonprofit platform

  • Khanmigo encourages real thinking, not just answers

  • Free core app; AI tutor access may require small donation or waitlist

3. Duolingo – AI-Powered Language, Math & Music Learning

What it does: Teaches over 40 languages (plus Math & Music) with gamified AI lessons. Premium features include AI chat in foreign languages.

Why parents like it:

  • Kid-friendly with social features restricted for under 13s

  • Free with ads; Premium is ~$7/month or family plan available

  • Great balance of fun and learning

4. Quizlet – AI Flashcards and Study Tools

What it does: Allows students to study using flashcards, quizzes, and the Q-Chat AI tutor. Helps with exam prep, languages, and more.

Why parents like it:

  • No chat/social distractions

  • Guided, safe academic content

  • Free version available; Quizlet Plus ~ $35/year

5. Photomath – AI Math Solver and Tutor

What it does: Snap a photo of a math problem and get instant step-by-step help. Great for algebra, geometry, calculus.

Why parents like it:

  • Focused only on math with no chat or extra content

  • Helps explain rather than just solve

  • Free version covers most needs; Plus plan ~$5–10/month

6. Canva – Creative Studio with Safe AI Tools

What it does: Lets teens design posters, presentations, art and social posts using templates, AI-generated images and smart writing tools.

Why parents like it:

  • No social feed, no stranger interaction

  • Filters block unsafe content

  • Free to use; Canva Pro unlocks premium features

7. Dream by WOMBO – AI Art Generator

What it does: Teens type a phrase, choose a style, and AI generates a unique piece of art. Great for fun, fantasy, and self-expression.

Why parents like it:

  • Safe filters and no direct chat features

  • Private mode available

  • Free with premium upgrades (~$15/month optional)

8. LittleLit – Creative AI Studio for Kids and Teens

What it does: Offers story-writing, art-making, music, and project planning with friendly AI guides. Perfect for creative exploration.

Why parents like it:

  • Fully moderated with parent controls

  • No ads or unsafe content

  • Free to try; full access ~$6/month

9. Wysa – AI Mood Companion & Mental Health Coach

What it does: Teens chat with a penguin avatar that helps with stress, self-esteem, and mindfulness using CBT techniques.

Why parents like it:

  • NHS-endorsed and privacy-respecting

  • No human chat or unsafe content

  • Free core version; Premium tools ~$75/year

10. Woebot – AI Therapy Assistant (Provider-Only Access)

What it does: CBT chatbot designed by psychologists for teens. Offers mood tracking, coping skills and emotional support.

Why parents like it:

  • Backed by clinical research and used by health providers

  • Private, no ads, no social features

  • Free with access code from school/doctor

Final Thoughts: When introducing any AI app to your teen, discuss ground rules and encourage open communication. Most apps above are fun, useful, and thoughtfully designed. With your guidance, they can be a healthy part of your teen’s digital world!