Digital learning tools can help improve your child’s learning in various ways: They can enhance language development, build visual literacy, and increase their critical thinking. There are different digital apps for learning that provide different lessons and knowledge to kids. Today, it is easy to find a lot of online learning tools, some of which are free, and others requiring a paid subscription. Generally, these tools are safe, and most do not require too much adult supervision. Below are 8 recommended digital learning tools for your child.
1. Curious World
Curious World is catered for children age 2 to 7 and aims to build your child’s curiosity, boost academic skills and build a lifelong love of learning. This app is very popular because it provides a customized curriculum for users depending on their age and interests. Here you will find educational books, games, and videos. It also offers hands-on activities including cooking, crafting, science experiments, creative play, and more. There is a parent dashboard to help parents understand their kids interest and monitor their progress. This resource requires you to pay a monthly subscription fee which is very affordable and you can access a seven-day trial period to see if its suitable for you before signing up. App verson is only available in Apple Store.
2. ABCMouse
ABCMouse is designed to help children between 2 to 8 years old to learn a wide range of topics such as math, social studies, reading, art, and science. The main advantage of using this tool is that it is regularly updated and it is very interactive. This learning tool is also equipped with a site progress bar where parents can easily follow up on their kids’ progress. There is monthly subscription fee but it is quite affordable. App version is available in Apple and Google Play Stores.
3. Khan Academy Kids
Khan Academy is a very popular education resource for those aged 2 to 8. Parents who have used this generally love this tool because it has thousands of interactive activities and videos to help kids learn about reading, math, spelling and general knowledge. The best part is that there is no subscription fee and no advertisement even though everything is free. One of the best features is the wide range of audio books with read along option. You can select a personalized learning plan that will help to automatically adjust to each child’s learning needs and level. The app interface is easy for children to navigate and find what interests them. App version is available in Apple and Google Play Stores.
4. Starfall
Starfall is suitable for children from kindergarten up to third grade. The main focus of this online resource is to teach children reading. However, there are also many other activities such as art, languages, and math. The contents are largely free with many printable worksheets, but you can pay for an annual subscription fee to gain full access to their content. App version is available in Apple and Google Play Stores.
5. Wonderopolis
Children are known for their endless questions, which sometimes parents struggle to find answers for. If your children at this stage, then this is exactly what you need. Wonderopolis was created by the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) in 2010 and aims to eradicate poverty through education for families. Hence, all the resources are free, in hope that many children can benefit from it! Wonderopolis provides fun facts for a wide range of topics, from animals, culture, nature to biography. You can also subscribe to their email list to get a “Wonder of the day” and also key in questions to contribute to their Wonder question bank. There is so many good questions and answers to explore for kids (e.g. " How is plastic recycled" and " Are yawns contagious?") and the interface is attractive and easy to navigate. Wonderopolis app version is only available in Google Play Store.
6. Funbrain
Funbrain is an educational tool for children aged 6 to 14 years old. It is free a resource but the major downside is that you must be ready to deal with the many advertisements popping up. Otherwise, the interface is attractive, easy to use and you can select the materials based on your child’s grade. There are many cute and colorful games, books (with famous books such as Diary of a Wimpy Kid), videos, and audio that cover various fun topics for children. Funbrain is available on Google Play Store. Funbrain Jr. is available on Apple Store - this is more suited for children aged 2-6 years old and focuses on practicing skills in early literacy, math, and problem solving.
7. National Geographic Kids
National Geographic Kids is meant to help children learn about the world around them and works best with children aged 10 years and above. It covers various topics including science, environment, animals, and experiments, among many other geographical contents. It uses videos and articles to explain information to kids. There’s also some simple games like puzzles, quizzes and action & adventure games. The best part is - its a free website with regular new content! However, this is not available in Apple and Google Play Stores.
8. NASA Kids Club
If your child is interested in space and science, NASA Kids Club is a great resource for them. It is a free website and provides space information through videos and articles. There are also games that make it fun for children to learn about space and science. However, the information is quite extensive so it is more suitable for older children and those who really have a keen interest in earth and space related topics. This is not available on Apple and Google Play Stores. This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional. © 2022 Kawai
