A parent's checklist: how to evaluate a learning app for a child with ADHD

There are thousands of learning apps, and most promise to boost grades, focus and confidence. Parents of children with ADHD are an especially targeted audience. Before you subscribe, spend ten minutes testing with these questions.

Starting and using

• Can my child start in under 30 seconds? If setup is long and complicated, many children will never get to the first question.
• Is there one clear next step? Or an overwhelming menu?
• Are sessions short, with visible endings?
• Can they pause and resume exactly where they left off?

Feedback and motivation

• Is feedback immediate and kind? Look for explanations, not only "wrong".
• How does it treat missed days? Harsh streak loss is a red flag; freezes and comebacks are good signs.
• Are rewards tied to learning, or just to tapping and returning?
• Can I reduce animations and sounds?

Content

• Does it match our syllabus and class? NCERT, CBSE, ICSE or state board.
• Is the content accurate? Check a few questions you know.
• Does it offer different ways to learn: quizzes, flashcards, notes?

Safety and honesty

• What data does it collect from my child, and can I delete it? Look for a clear privacy notice and parent controls.
• Are the claims honest? Beware of promises to "treat", "cure" or "fix" ADHD, or guaranteed grade jumps.
• How does it make money? Subscriptions are straightforward; pop-up ads and in-app purchases aimed at children are not.
• Is there human support if something goes wrong?

Test it with your child

Let them try it for a week. Watch for:

• Do they start without nagging?
• Do they stop on their own?
• Are they proud of progress, or anxious about it?
• Do they remember what they studied?

Ask the school or clinician

Teachers and psychologists see many students and may know which tools suit a particular profile.

ZEKO is a study-habit product for students who struggle with sustained focus. It is not a medical or diagnostic tool, and we would rather you judge it on these questions than on slogans.