  Mobile health apps hold great potential for promoting children's health and
wellbeing. However, there is limited understanding of how these technologies
are currently designed to support children with their health concerns or
wellness goals. To gain insight into the current landscape of mobile apps
designed for children's health, we retrieved and reviewed 43 apps from IOS and
Google Play store that are specifically marketed for children. Our qualitative
analysis identified the dominant health focuses and goals of children's mobile
health apps. We analyzed the primary users and their expectations as well as
the methods of engagement and involvement adopted. Based on our findings, we
discussed the opportunities to support children with chronic illnesses through
mobile apps, design for dual use, and design for age appropriateness and
digital health safety. This study provides insights and recommendations for app
designers, health researchers, and policymakers on strategies for engaging
children and parents while also promoting children's health and wellbeing
through mobile technology.
