How We Evaluate Apps and Tools for Kids

Choosing digital tools for kids can feel like searching for a needle in an overwhelming haystack. App stores are crowded with bold claims that are rarely backed by evidence. Review sites and ratings don’t always show the whole picture, and online searches often lead to hundreds of disconnected options.

At Locket, our goal is to make it easy for every family to access the trusted digital resources that help kids learn and grow.

Our team evaluates learning apps and tools through two lenses at the same time:

• As parents,thinking about how a tool fits into real family life
• As subject matter experts,grounded in how kids actually learn and play

This page explains how we evaluate the apps and tools featured on Locket.

For support with healthy screen time, making the most of digital learning at home, or helping kids navigate digital media, you can refer to our family technology guides.

Our Evaluation Philosophy

We’re here to help you feel prepared, empowered, and confident, because you have a partner who has done the homework, checked the fine print, and made sure your kids are getting the best.

We believe it’s better to offer a few excellent choices than hundreds of not-so-great options.

That’s why we go beyond surface-level ratings to ask:

• Does the tool reflect what we know about how kids learn and play?
• Does it realistically fit with family routines and goals?
• Is it a worthwhile investment of a family’s time and resources?

Our evaluation process is also designed to uncover hidden gems. Many of our content partners are small, dedicated teams with special expertise. They share our commitment to putting kids’ needs first.

Our Core Evaluation Criteria

Every app or tool featured on Locket is evaluated across the following areas.

Evidence-Based Learning

Products on Locket are based on research around how kids learn. We don’t rely on marketing language alone — we look for evidence that learning claims are supported by research and real‑world testing. For example, if an app says it helps kids learn to read, we make sure that claim is backed by data. Our evaluation considers:

• Is the tool’s concept based on established research on how kids learn?
• Did kids, educators, and subject matter experts participate in its design and development?
• Was the tool tested with kids to see if it meets its learning goals?

Parents can feel confident knowing each Locket product helps kids grow in meaningful, measurable ways.

Play-Tested by Kids

A learning tool isn’t effective if kids don’t enjoy using it. That’s why products on Locket put the needs of kids first. They have been tested by kids to ensure they are fun and easy to use. For example, if a tool is intended for preschoolers, its navigation should be based on pictures rather than just words. Our evaluation considers:

• Was the tool play-tested by kids during its design and development?
• Was the tool play-tested by kids with different learning styles and needs?
• Did play-testing confirm that the tool is enjoyable and easy to use?

Parents can expect that each Locket tool will be loved by their kids and also be easy for them to set up and support.

Kid-Safe and Privacy-First

Products on Locket prioritize the best interests of kids and families. They follow privacy and data security laws. We expect our partners to follow not only the minimum legal requirements, but also the gold standard for best practices. Our evaluation considers:

• Does the tool follow the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)?
• Does the tool comply with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)consumer protection standards?
• Does the tool avoid predatory practices designed to keep kids online or convince them to spend money?

Families can count on Locket apps as safe and secure spaces for kids to learn and grow, without worrying about being taken advantage of.

Ad-Free and Transparent Pricing

Locket subscribers unlock a premium version of each app, with no in-app purchases or ads. This means that there are no distracting pop-ups to interrupt the playful learning experience. Our evaluation considers:

• Does the tool display ads or paid promotions to kids?
• Does the tool require additional fees to unlock levels or features?
• Does the tool require paid plug-ins or other software?

All products on Locket are web-based, so they will work in a browser on any computer, tablet, or smartphone. Plus, you can pause or cancel your subscription at any time with no hassle.

How Evaluations Appear in Our Product Listings

Each product listing on Locket is designed to help families quickly understand what a tool offers and whether it fits their needs. From top to bottom, each product page includes the following:

1. The name of the content partner with a link to learn more about them
2. The subjects, topics, grades, and style that the product includes
3. A brief product description
4. Details on what is included in a subscription
5. Suggestions on how to get the most out of the tool
6. The evidence behind why it works for kids
7. Pricing for a yearly or monthly subscription, with a 7-day free trial

Product pages also include images and videos that families can review together.