Smiling Mind review

Smiling Mind is the best free option for families. The Australian not-for-profit has kept its app free for individuals and families for more than 12 years, funded by partners and supporters rather than subscriptions. The app holds over 700 sessions and 90 collections and pathways, searchable by keyword, need or age group, so a parent can find a calming exercise for a child's big emotions as easily as an adult can find a sleep session. Content follows a Mental Fitness Model developed by psychologists, researchers and wellbeing practitioners. Adults with an established practice will find it less deep than Waking Up or Insight Timer, and parts of the wider program target Australian schools. For parents who want to teach kids mindfulness without another subscription, or adults who want simple guided sessions at no cost, it is an easy recommendation.

Who it is for

Families, kids and teens who want free, age-appropriate mindfulness.

Price

Free for individuals and families.

the Smiling Mind App has remained free for individuals and families to access for over 12 years.
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 4, 2026.

Key features

• Over 700 sessions and 90 collections and pathways
• Search and filters by need or age group
• Content for sleep, stress and big emotions in children
• Built on an evidence-based Mental Fitness Model
• Family and school programs

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Free for individuals and families
• Strength: Strong content for children and teens
• Strength: Developed by psychologists and researchers
• Weakness: Less depth for experienced adult meditators
• Weakness: Some programs are aimed at Australian schools
• Weakness: No sleep story library like Calm's

Key facts

• Price: Free
• Library: 700+ sessions, 90 collections and pathways
• Organization: Australian not-for-profit

Where it ranks

Smiling Mind is No. 5 in our Best Meditation Apps verdict.