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There are a lot of the apps that are free and a lot that will cost you. Mostly, it depends on what type of skill you're trying to enforce and which methods you think are best to do that.

iPads have had an absolute explosion in educational apps that teach everything from time to money to phonics. Where it may particularly shine above mobile phones apps is through titles that are designed to help kids learn how to write. It’s bigger, just about the size of a standard paper writing pad for school. Little ones can get used to writing their letters and numbers in the same size as they'll likely do once in the classroom.

The downside is they will be learning how to write with their index fingers. It's unclear how well that'll translate once you stick a pen or pencil in their hands.

Touch-screen phones do offer those types of drawing tools too, but you'll probably find since the screens are smaller, they're better suited for activities that require more basic taps and swipes.

Connect-the-dots games may be a perfect example, as they help teach counting. When they're done, the picture comes to life a bit.

There are also number and word games that'll help you tailor learning more to your child's interests to make it feel less like learning.

Finally, Blackberry educational apps are usually more point and click since they don't have the touch-screen, except for Storm and Torch models. The advantage to these games for the mom or dad owner of the Blackberry is the titles often times lock the keyboard. So, your child can fiddle away without crank calling or messaging a few contacts. In the process, they may actually learn a thing or two.

To find the education apps you think would do the most good, if you're forced to relinquish your device to a pint-sized loved one, browse through either the education or game section of your device's app store.