Can I Add Games to PBS Kids Tablet? A Complete Guide

Introduction

If you’re a parent or guardian wondering, “Can I add games to PBS Kids tablet?”, you’re not alone. Many parents want to enhance their child’s learning experience by adding more educational games to their PBS Kids tablet.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore:

• What the PBS Kids tablet is

• Whether you can add third-party games

• How to access more PBS Kids content

• Alternative tablets with more flexibility

• Parental control tips

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to maximize your child’s tablet experience while keeping it safe and educational.

What Is the PBS Kids Tablet?

The PBS Kids tablet is a child-friendly device designed to provide a safe, educational digital experience. It comes preloaded with PBS Kids games, videos, and apps that align with the network’s educational mission.

Key Features:

• Parental Controls: Restrict access to only approved content.

• Pre-installed PBS Kids Apps: Includes popular shows like Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood and Wild Kratts.

• Durable Design: Made to withstand drops and rough handling.

Since it’s designed for young children, the tablet has limited customization options compared to regular Android or iOS tablets.

Can I Add Games to a PBS Kids Tablet?

The short answer is it depends.

1. Officially Licensed PBS Kids Tablet

If you have the PBS Kids-branded tablet (usually manufactured by companies like Ematic or DragonTouch), these devices are locked down to only allow PBS Kids-approved apps. You cannot directly install third-party games like Minecraft or Roblox.

Why Can’t You Add Games?

• Closed Ecosystem: PBS Kids tablets run on a restricted version of Android.

• Safety Measures: To prevent kids from accessing inappropriate content.

• No Google Play Store: Most lack access to the full app store.

2. Alternative: PBS Kids App on Regular Tablets

If your child uses a regular Android or iPad tablet with the PBS Kids app, you have more flexibility.

How to Add More Games:

1. Download PBS Kids Games:

   • Open the PBS Kids app or PBS Kids Games app.

   • Browse and download additional free games.

2. Use Parental Controls:

   • Adjust settings in the PBS Kids app to unlock more content.

3. Install Other Educational Apps:

   • On Android, use the Google Play Store (with parental controls).

   • On iPad, use the App Store (with Screen Time restrictions).

3. Side-Loading Apps (Advanced Users)

Some tech-savvy parents try side-loading apps onto PBS Kids tablets, but this is not recommended because:

• It may void the warranty.

• It can expose kids to unsecured content.

• The tablet may not support external APK files.

How to Access More PBS Kids Games

If you want more PBS Kids content, follow these steps:

1. Update the PBS Kids App

• Ensure the tablet has the latest version of the PBS Kids app.

• New games are added regularly.

2. Use the PBS Kids Website

• Some games are available on pbskids.org.

• You can bookmark the website on the tablet’s browser (if available).

3. Check for Firmware Updates

• Some PBS Kids tablets receive updates with new preloaded games.

• Go to Settings > System Updates to check.

Best Alternative Tablets for More Games

If you want a more flexible kids’ tablet that still supports PBS Kids Games consider:

1. Amazon Fire Kids Tablet

• Pros:

  • Includes a 1-year subscription to Amazon Kids+ (which has PBS Kids content).

  • Parental controls to allow or block apps.

  • More game options than PBS Kids tablets.

• Cons:

  • Some apps require a subscription.

2. Samsung Galaxy Tab Kids Edition

• Pros:

  • Full access to Google Play Store (with parental controls).

  • Durable design.

• Cons:

  • More expensive than PBS Kids tablets.

3. LeapFrog or VTech Tablets

• Pros:

  • Focused on educational games.

  • Parent-friendly controls.

• Cons:

  • Limited to brand-specific apps.

Parental Control Tips for Adding Games

If you allow additional games on your child’s tablet, follow these safety tips:

✅ Use Parental Controls – Restrict app downloads and screen time.
✅ Stick to Educational Games – Look for PEGI or ESRB ratings.
✅ Monitor Usage – Check which games your child is playing.
✅ Avoid In-App Purchases – Disable them in settings.

Conclusion

So, can you add games to a PBS Kids tablet? If it’s a dedicated PBS Kids Games branded tablet, the answer is usually no—it’s locked to PBS content. However, if your child uses a regular tablet with the PBS Kids app, you can add more games safely.