educational activities for preschoolers online

• How to Join

Starfall has no advertising, does not collect personal information from children, does not sell any information, and uses cookies only for internal website management. By using this site, you agree to our use of cookies and updated Privacy Policy OK

• Accessibility

At Starfall, children have fun while they learn.

Starfall was founded by Dr. Stephen Schutz, who had difficulty learning to read as a child due to dyslexia. He was motivated to create a learning platform with untimed, multisensory interactive games that allow children to see, hear, and touch as they learn. read more...

Starfall was developed in the classroom by teachers and opened in August 2002 as a free public service to teach children to read. Since then it has expanded to include standards in language arts and mathematics for preschool through fifth grade and above. The program emphasizes exploration, play, and positive reinforcement—encouraging children to become confident and intrinsically motivated. Due to the engaging content that “feels like play,” Starfall serves as an educational alternative to other entertainment choices for children. read more...

Starfall activities are research-based and align with state learning objectives for English language arts and mathematics. Its emphasis on phonemic awareness, systematic sequential phonics, and common sight words in conjunction with audiovisual interactivity is especially effective for teaching emergent readers, children of all ages with special needs or learning difficulties, as well as ELL (ESL) students. It is widely used in schools and homeschools.

Starfall’s low-cost membership program expands the free content to include additional animated songs, mathematics activities, and reading. Membership supports the production of new books, educational games, and movies.

Unlock Early Learning: Free, Fun, and Interactive Preschool Activities!

A free online preschool platform offers interactive and engaging activities for young learners. It includes math practice, preschool lessons, and a variety of worksheets, focusing on developing math skills and critical thinking in a fun, educational environment. This resource provides comprehensive learning tools like preschool workbooks and online math exercises, all available for free.

Suitable for Everyone

Exercises and tasks are designed according to the interests, age, and knowledge level of your child

Content takes into account the child's interests within free online preschool education

Suitable for age group, considering current knowledge and skills, including math practice

Creates an engaging developmental journey with free worksheets and math problems

Inspires wonder and a love for learning through diverse preschool activities and math tasks

Interactive Preschool Math and Learning Platform

Uncover an innovative online tool that supports preschoolers in their learning journey through engaging math activities and lessons

Exciting assignments

Active preschoolers

Kids Engaged - Parents Relaxed

Learn at home, in the car, in line, with friends, at grandma's, instead of cartoons and boredom!

Worksheet Generators

Our platform offers an extensive range of free resources tailored to preschool education, including free online preschool programs, comprehensive preschool lessons, and interactive preschool activities. Enjoy access to a wealth of free worksheets, including preschool worksheets, kindergarten activities, and math practice worksheets, designed to enhance learning for preschoolers for free. With our free educational worksheets and online math practice, including free math problems and exercises, your child can develop essential math skills and enjoy learning.

Word Search

Helps children learn new words and expand their vocabulary through a fun game format.

Solve engaging puzzles and problems that require logical thinking and creative problem-solving.

Colorful coloring pages with letters, numbers, and various objects that help children learn to write and develop their creative abilities.

What's Wrong

Spot the differences and incorrect elements in images or sequences, enhancing your ability to notice details.

Developmental Workbooks

Our BrainHunters Academy workbooks are more than just preschool tools; they are gateways to a world brimming with knowledge for your child. Crafted by a team of seasoned educators and skilled illustrators, these preschool resources blend cutting-edge preschool lessons and math practice with a visually engaging and colorful design.

Each of our preschool workbooks focuses on a theme from the Universe, enriching not only basic reading, writing, and math skills but also fueling a passion for space, astronomy, and science. They're perfect for math practice and include worksheets to enhance learning.

BrainHunters Academy workbooks offer active and comprehensive preschool resources that will not only keep your child's attention but also help develop critical thinking, creative skills, and curiosity.

• Information
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy

First Grade Sample

Online Activities for Kids: Fun, Safe, and Educational

In this article:

The Power of Play: Learning and Fun Online

A world of activities: engaging kids of all ages, safe adventures in the digital world, striking a balance: a world of possibilities awaits.

The digital age has transformed the way kids learn and play. While screen time shouldn’t replace traditional activities, online resources can be a valuable tool for keeping them engaged and fostering their development. This article explores a variety of online activities categorized by age group, highlighting their educational and entertainment benefits, and emphasizes the importance of safe exploration in the digital world.

Gone are the days of limited educational options for kids at home. Today, the internet offers a vast array of online activities that can both entertain and educate young minds.  These activities can supplement classroom learning in a fun and interactive way, making even complex concepts more engaging.

• Himachal Pradesh UG MBBS & BDS Admission 2019 | HP NEET Counselling, Registration, Merit List, Cut off Rank, Detailed information Medical and Dental Colleges
• Most Beautiful Origami Peacock
• Overcome Exam Anxiety: 5 Tips to Battle Test Anxiety
• DIY Puppets Your Kids Will Love Making and Playing With
• AIIMS MBBS Result 2018 - Know about Toppers in AIIMS Result 2018

The benefits of online activities extend far beyond academics. They can provide access to a wider range of topics and resources, sparking curiosity and igniting a passion for lifelong learning.  Interactive games and simulations encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills – valuable tools for success in school and beyond.

But online activities aren’t just about learning. They can also offer creative outlets for expression and exploration.  Kids can unleash their artistic side with online coloring pages and music creation platforms, or delve into interactive stories that come alive with animation and sound effects. Social interaction, a crucial aspect of development, can be fostered through online games with safe chat features, allowing kids to connect with peers who share their interests.

The key to harnessing the power of online activities lies in choosing them based on a child’s age and interests. Here’s a glimpse into the exciting options available for different age groups:

Preschoolers (Ages 3-5)

Building a strong foundation for learning starts early. Educational games focusing on basic skills like counting, shapes, colors, and alphabet recognition are a great way to introduce young minds to new concepts. Look for games with simple interfaces, engaging sounds, and positive reinforcement to keep them motivated and engaged.

PBS Kids Games and Sesame Street Games are excellent examples of such platforms.  Interactive stories like Reading Rainbow and Dr. Seuss Online add another dimension to learning, promoting literacy through animation, sound effects, and activities that encourage participation.  Finally, simple online coloring pages on Crayola.com or Nick Jr. Create can spark their creativity and artistic expression.

School-Aged Children (Ages 6-12)

As kids enter formal education, online resources can seamlessly complement their classroom learning. Educational websites and apps like National Geographic Kids and Scholastic Online Classroom offer interactive lessons, quizzes, and activities aligned with various subjects, making learning more fun and interactive. 

For the budding tech enthusiasts, coding and programming activities like Scratch and CodeCombat introduce basic coding concepts through engaging games and tutorials, nurturing valuable problem-solving skills. Virtual tours offered by Google Arts & Culture and the National Museum of Natural History allow them to explore museums, historical sites, and natural wonders from around the world, fostering a sense of global awareness.

Teenagers (Ages 13 and Up)

Teenagers crave deeper learning and self-expression. Educational video channels like Crash Course and TED-Ed cater to this by presenting educational content in an engaging video format, covering a wide range of topics from science and history to current events. 

Online courses and tutorials offered by Khan Academy and Coursera delve deeper into specific subjects, potentially leading to certifications and enriching their knowledge base. Creative expression platforms like Wattpad and Canva empower teens to explore their writing, photography, and music creation skills, fostering a sense of individuality and artistic exploration.

While online activities offer immense benefits, navigating the digital world requires caution. Parental guidance and supervision are crucial, especially for younger children.  When choosing websites and apps, look for reputable sources with educational value and clearly defined age appropriateness.  Checking privacy policies and utilizing parental controls ensures a safe online environment for your child.

Open communication is key. Discuss online safety practices with your kids, emphasizing the importance of online etiquette and responsible communication.  Raising awareness about cyberbullying and strategies for prevention empowers them to navigate online interactions safely.

The digital world offers a treasure trove of learning and entertainment for kids. But it’s important to remember that online activities should complement, not replace, traditional play and offline interactions.  Finding a healthy balance ensures that kids reap the benefits of both worlds.

With so many engaging and educational online activities available, parents have a powerful tool to support their child’s learning and development. Explore the vast array of options, choose wisely based on your child’s age and interests, and create a safe and stimulating online environment that fosters curiosity, exploration, and a love for learning.

SchoolMyKids provides Parenting Tips & Advice to parents, Information about Schools near you and Schools Reviews

Ritwik Shah

Last Updated: Tue Apr 23 2024

Related Articles

Fun and Educational Activities for Kindergarteners

Craft activities for kids

Maths Activities for Class 7

Learning Through Play: A Fun-filled Math Activity for Recognizing Shapes in Class 1

Creating Homeschool Portfolios

Transition from public school to homeschool

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Teaching Expertise

• Classroom Ideas
• Teacher’s Life
• Deals & Shopping
• Privacy Policy

20 Awesome Online Activities For Preschool

October 14, 2022 //  by  Narciss Greene

With so much on the internet to choose from, finding truly educational games online can be tricky, especially for the younger ages. That’s why we’ve developed this list of twenty meaningful online preschool activities for you to add to your lesson plans.

Traditional preschool models may be lacking in the digital skills students need in the 21st century. These activities are aimed to help build these technological essential skills in an impactful way to set the stage for future learning. Read on to discover online preschool learning ideas!

1. Get Moving

Smartify Kids provides a new digital experience for parents who are looking for an alternative to online games. It turns your laptop or tablet into a pseudo-Xbox Kinect using AI allowing children to play and learn through motion. The digital platform provided suits children’s needs by improving their motor skills through play.

Learn more: Smartify Kids

2. Watch, Play, and Read

The interactive games found on Noggin will help your child’s observation skills as they take what they have watched and put it into action. Children will love the fun colors and engaging reading library they can listen to.

Learn more: Noggin

3. Play With Elmo

Supplement preschool education with Elmo’s basic concepts. There are a plethora of free games just waiting to be played on Sesame Street. Follow Elmo, Big Bird, Bert, and Ernie through their adventures and sing along songs.

Learn more: Sesame Street

4. Subject-Based Progressive Activities

I love this fully developed online preschool curriculum because it progresses with the child. The games recognize if the questions are too easy and will offer more challenging prompts next time. This means your toddler will never grow bored!

Learn more: ABC Mouse

5. Use Strategy and Skill

ABC Ya has logic skill-type games that will keep your child guessing.  They will be challenged and excited to use the critical categorization skills needed to excel at the elementary level. Sorting through a diverse set of problems after these games will be a cinch!

Learn more: ABCya

6. Stories, Games, and Stickers

Is your preschooler obsessed with stickers? Mine too. Fun Brain makes digital stickers that kids can earn again and again through their monster-themed games. Gain literacy skills through stories or conduct a virtual science experiment with no mess.

Learn more: Fun Brain Jr.

7. Kids Preschool Learning Game

Find over two hundred games with this app. Your child can drive with a car game or learn about different automobiles, shapes, and instruments. Have them label body parts or recite the alphabet. Hand-eye skills will be used at their finest as they draw in the digital coloring book.

Learn more: Google Play

8. ABC – Phonics and Tracing

What is the difference between a lowercase and an uppercase letter? Get this app for children aged one to six to help them find out! The pre-phonics reading skills developed with this app will assist with building vocabulary as kids trace letters and learn sounds.

9. Learn The Days of The Week

Dave and Ava make learning fun through songs. Singing is one fantastic way to cement something in your mind. Your toddler will know the days of the week by heart after just a few times singing along to this tune.

Learn more: Dave & Ava

10. Sing in Another Language

Dave and Ava also have a wide variety of songs that are sung in Spanish. Your child can develop new language skills quickly through song. The sooner a child is exposed to a new language, the easier it will be to learn later in life.

11. Paw Patrol Rescue World

Explore Adventure Bay as your favorite Paw Patrol pup. Each pup has different powers. Therefore, depending on the mission at hand, you may want to pick a different pup so you can earn a mission complete reward.

Learn more: Apple Apps

12. Toddler Games

Explore, learn and play with over two hundred flash cards and ten different learning categories to choose from. Is the level too much for your toddler? No problem! This app will provide hints when kids get stuck to avoid frustration.

13. Take a Letter Quiz

So your child can sing the “ABCs,” but how many letters do they actually know? How is the letter M different from the letter W? Have your child take this fun letter quiz to test their readiness skills. Use the results to determine their strengths and weaknesses.

Learn more: 22 Learn Kids Game

14. Be a Brainy Blueberry

Can you help Brainy Blueberry find his backpack balloon? It has flown away! This interactive book will have your child laughing and asking for more silly stories. Kids love to “help” solve mysteries which is exactly what they will be doing here.

15. Practice Numbers

Preschool math activities are wonderful tools for child development. Online preschool learners ages four to six are best suited for this number of practices.  The game is equipped with eighty different levels to build strong math skills.

Learn more: Teach Your Monster

16. Learn How The Heart Works

Get strong and stay healthy by learning how our most important organ, the heart, works. This premade online preschool program comes with six adventures and a total of sixty tasks that will build actual life skills while developing emotion management.

Learn more: Heart Math

17. Find Feelings

Here is a fun and easy social-emotional learning game for toddlers. Finding Feelings teaches kids how to name emotions and match that emotions to a face. Learn about opposites through sad vs. happy or calm vs. angry with this game.

Learn more: Nick Jr.

18. Sound It Out

Preschool games that involve letter names are so helpful. Your child will be guided through the steps on how to sound out words and how to draw letters appropriately. This gentle yet intense step-by-step program is perfect for young minds.

Learn more: Kidz Phonics

19. Touch and Tap Games

My favorite part about this game is that there is no need to download anything. Just visit the website, hand over the screen, and begin playing! Since all you have to do is touch and tap the screen, it is designed for babies and toddlers alike.

Learn more: Happy Clicks

20. Get Seasonal

Preschool learning activities that teach about the seasons are my favorite. We all associate certain times of the year with various emotions, so learning about events that happen during each season is an important concept to teach preschoolers.

Learn more: StarFall

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

Get our FREE Mother's Day Printable 💐!

40+ Best Online Educational Games for Every Grade in 2023

Make screen time meaningful and fun!

Kids are always asking for more screen time, and parents and teachers are always looking for ways to make that screen time more worthwhile. Fortunately, there are endless free online games for kids that teach language arts, math, science, art, and STEM. If you’re not quite sure where to get started, try this list of our favorite teacher-approved online educational games. You’ll find educational games for students in every subject and every grade.

Preschool and Elementary Online Educational Games

Middle and high school online educational games.

Offering a full curriculum for children ages 2 to 8, this site includes fun and interactive games, songs, and puzzles for reading, math, science, and art. (Free for teachers and classrooms; subscription available for home use)

Adventure Academy

From the same company as ABCMouse, Adventure Academy takes kids ages 8 to 13 on a knowledge quest through language arts, math, science, and social studies. (First month free, then monthly subscription fee)

Looking to improve outcomes in a way that kids will enjoy? This educational game takes K-12 students on a time-traveling adventure to meet some of the most influential mathematicians in history. (Monthly or annual subscription plans for families; schools request price quote)

Duck Duck Moose Reading

Based on Common Core State Standards, this app teaches phonics including the letter sounds for all consonants, short vowels, and long vowels. Kids will also practice spelling consonant-vowel-consonant (CVC) words. If you like this one, check out Duck Duck Moose’s whole collection of school games online. (Apps are free to download and play.)

Test your knowledge while earning rice for those in need! Each time you play, you’re helping the United Nations World Food Programme provide food to those around the world who need it. The game offers a variety of subjects and difficulty levels. (Free)

Dive into a coral reef or be a star climber on this great site that features a wide assortment of free online games for kids. These educational games focus mainly on reading and math, but you’ll find lots of fun activities here with options for pre-K through grade 8. (Free)

Gamestar Mechanic

Do you have gamers in your class? This site helps kids ages 7 through 14 learn how to design their very own video games through game-based quests and courses. (Free)

Whether they’re jetpacking through the stars in Zapp Von Doubler’s Space Race or clearing weeds in the garden in Om Petalhead’s Flower Power, kids will enjoy this collection of fun educational games that get them up and moving! (Free)

KUBO Play – Coding for Kids

KUBO Play is an interactive online platform that teaches coding and computational thinking to early learners. Its three activity modes (Free Play, Practice, and Story) include more than 100 coding tasks combined. You can even customize your students’ learning pathways. (Contact for pricing)

Learning Games for Kids: Health Games

Kids in grades K-5 can learn about a range of health topics, from body parts to staying fit, with these interactive online games. They’re perfect for science learning enrichment. (Free)

Little Alchemy 2

This deceptively simple game is actually a lot of fun. Kids (and teachers!) can experiment with combining different elements, such as fire or dirt, to create something entirely new. It encourages creative thinking as well as knowledge of the world around us. (Free)

Minecraft: Education Edition

Kids love the regular Minecraft video game, but this education-focused version takes learning to the next level. With lessons, STEM curriculum, and project-based challenges, this immersive digital environment promotes creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. (Priced per user, per year)

Moose Math engages kids in a mathematical adventure and teaches counting, addition, subtraction, sorting, geometry, and more. While playing five multi-level activities in the Moose Juice Store, Puck’s Pet Shop, and Lost & Found, kids can earn rewards to help build their own city and decorate buildings. (Free)

Multiplication.com

Need to master your multiplication facts? This is the site to try! Fun games and memory-building strategies will help students tackle this key skill. (Free, with Premium membership available for extra features)

National Geographic Kids

Head out on the trail with Captain John Smith, explore Ancient Greece with Zeus the Mighty, or just take a quiz about sharks on this robust site filled with great educational games for students. (Free)

PBS Kids Games

You’ll find everything from social studies to teamwork and feelings in this incredible collection of games that vary in degree of difficulty. The website is truly filled with some of the very best educational games centering on science, social studies, history, and art. (Free)

Prodigy Math

Looking for personalized math lessons for your students? Kids in grades 1-8 take a Prodigy placement test that generates games tailored to their strengths and weaknesses. They’ll build confidence by solving math challenges to progress in the game. (Free)

RoomRecess.com

Access over 140 online educational games for kids in grades K-6 on this site, which was developed by an elementary school teacher with a focus on reinforcing fundamental learning concepts in math, reading, spelling, language arts, typing, and problem-solving. (Free)

Roy: Tale of a Singing Zebra

Kids pre-K to grade 2 will enjoy the punctuation, reading, and spelling games on this cute, simple site. You’ll also find online guided-reading stories and lesson plans for teachers. (Free)

Starfall activities are research-based and align with individual and Common Core State Standards in English language arts and mathematics. There are engaging and interactive games for students in grades K-3. (Some free content with subscriptions available)

Teachers love this great site that offers personalized math and spelling practice for kids ages 5 through 13 through adaptive learning and multi-player games. This is definitely one of the best online educational game sites out there! (Monthly subscription fee)

How good are your airbrush skills? Which famous artist should design your bedroom? Are you a master of street art? Kids can explore these questions and more with the cool quizzes and games on this art-focused site from the Tate Gallery. (Free)

Toy Theater

How would your students like to learn multiplication while shooting hoops? They can do that and more at Toy Theater, which teaches early math concepts through game-based learning. (Free)

Turtle Diary

Introduce kids to new, exciting ways of learning with the help of fun online games, videos, experiments, puzzles, coloring sheets, and more! Turtle Diary activities pair with the appropriate grade level to enhance retention of material and increase success in the classroom. (Free)

The games and challenges on Tynker give kids ages 5 and up a fun and easy way to build coding skills. This is one of the top online educational games for young coders— see more of our favorites here . (Subscription required)

Vocabulary A-Z

Dive into engaging learning activities and games for kids in first through sixth grades, designed to promote vocabulary, spelling, phonics, and language arts. (Free basic access; Premium membership unlocks complete library)

Algebraic Reasoning Sweet Shop

Who doesn’t like candy? Buy and sell sweet treats in this game that helps students grasp concepts related to price and purchasing. (Free)

Boat Coordinates

Use this fun boating game to learn and practice concepts related to grids and quadrants. Race along the X and Y axes to get to the finish line as fast as you can! (Free)

Cells Alive

This information website provides all sorts of interactive ways to learn about cells! Interactive models, puzzles, and more all help tell the story of this building block of life. (Free)

This guessing game uses maps and photos from around the world to educate kids on world locations as well as historical landmarks and famous cities. User-made quizzes add to the guessing fun! (Free)

Get the Math

Explore all the ways you really do use algebra in the real world. Students see how professionals use math in music, fashion, video games, restaurants, basketball, and special effects. Then take on interactive challenges related to those careers. (Free)

Created by a high school student, this interactive review game is something kids can play on their own devices, earning in-game money for correct answers that they can use to buy upgrades and power-ups! (Free, with Pro subscriptions available)

High-Stakes Heist

Kids use their knowledge of the order of operations to crack the safes and help hero Kit Foxtail return the townspeoples’ money that was stolen by the evil Duke von Wolfington. They’ll have to think fast as they try to solve equations in the correct order before time runs out! (Free)

Help kids learn the foundations of civics and government with this collection of highly interactive games including Court Quest, Newsfeed Defenders, and Do I Have the Right? (Free)

Kids Environment Kids Health

Through a wide assortment of puzzles, riddles, brainteasers, and more, kids can learn about their own health and the health of the environment on this website from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. (Free)

NASA STEM Engagement

With a variety of games, activities, and educational options to choose from, the NASA Stem Engagement site offers options for all grades. Learn, discover, and play online educational games related to space technology and exploration. (Free)

Physicsgames.net

This website offers dozens of different simple games to choose from that help educate kids on the mechanics of physics. Whether they are shooting pigs, knocking down walls, or trying to balance a building, they’ll learn and have fun at the same time. (Free)

Science Vocabulary Hangman

Use the clues to guess the scientific term before the cellular hangman disappears. Choose from literally hundreds of subject sets that include grade-specific vocab, state-level standardized tests, and more. (Free)

smokeSCREEN

As part of their #BeTheFirst Initiative, smokeSCREEN was developed by the play2PREVENT Lab, 1stPlayable, and Schell Games and funded by the NIH/FDA and the CVS Health Foundation. The game addresses the range of challenges that young teens face, with a dedicated focus on youth decision-making around smoking and vaping and strategies for both smoking prevention and cessation. Educators can request free access to the web-based game here . (Free)

Sortify: Angles

Learning about angles can be tricky, but this game uses cue cards and sorting bins to help students learn to properly classify angles into different categories. Make sure they’re all correct and then submit the responses to earn the most points. (Free)

Though Quizlet is known for its huge array of digital flash cards, this educational site offers much more for students. AI tutors help kids learn more about tricky subjects, plus transform their own notes into interactive learning activities. (Free; Quizlet Plus has more features available for a subscription fee)

Trigonometry Minigolf

Trigonometry has never been more fun than in this game that uses correct answers to power your golf swing as you aim for a hole in one! Miss an answer? The game will let you know what you did wrong and give you another shot. (Free)

Wrecks Factor

S.O.S.! Ships are sailing into your harbor and you need to help keep them from sinking! Solve the quadratic equations to keep the boats afloat and clear the board … if you take too long, boats start to sink and you lose a life. (Free)

Did we miss one of your favorite online educational games? Share in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, 28 online interactive math games kids will love ..

You Might Also Like

44 Powerful Instructional Strategies Examples for Every Classroom

So many ways to help students learn! Continue Reading

Copyright © 2023. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

• --> PRESCHOOL

Login as parent/teacher to assign this.

Preschool Games

Preschool math games.

Preschool Language Arts Games

Preschool Science Games

Best preschool learning games online, how will preschool games online help my child learn, what skills will my child gain with online games, what are the best preschool games online, our educational resources.

• Area and Perimeter
• Multiplication
• Roman Numerals
• Subtraction
• Units of Measurement

Language Arts Games

• Capitalization
• Compound Words
• Conjunction
• Parts of Speech
• Preposition
• Punctuation
• Sight Words
• Word Family

Science Games

• Earth and Resources
• The Human Body
• Water Cycle
• Weather and Seasons
• Hangman Games
• Jigsaw Puzzles
• Picture Games
• Typing Games
• Word Search Games
• Geography Games

Advertisement

• Baby and kid

Some of the Best Online Learning Games for Kids

By Courtney Schley

To find our favorite learning apps and games for kids, we spent more than 40 hours researching and testing 50-plus apps recommended by educators, experts, and parents. If your family has a tablet and you want it to be more than a game-playing and video-watching device, or if you’re trying to find apps for your smartphone that will do more than keep your kids occupied in a pinch, we have some great suggestions.

As with our guides to STEM and learning toys, we didn’t test scores of apps to try to find the “best” ones. Rather, most of the apps here have been chosen by teachers for their students in classrooms, used by Wirecutter parents and their kids, or recommended by the experts and educators we spoke with. (For details, read more about how we selected the apps in this guide.) The apps we cover in this guide are great learning apps not because they’re designed to make kids smarter, to drill facts, or to replace in-school learning, but because they each offer something fun, unique, and interesting for kids and adults.

The research

Our favorite math apps, our favorite coding apps, our favorite science and exploration apps, our favorite social and emotional learning apps, our favorite ebook app, how we picked and tested.

These math games don’t simply drill facts or make kids memorize but rather use visuals, narratives, and storylines to help kids discover math concepts and build their skills. We like these apps because they offer games and exercises tailored to different ages and skill levels and because they encourage adults and kids to play together.

A family math app: Bedtime Math

Bedtime Math (iOS and Android)

Bringing math home.

This free app makes math a part of daily family life, like a bedtime story. A peer-reviewed study showed that it not only helps improve kids’ math performance but also makes parents feel more comfortable with math.

Buying Options

How it works: Bedtime Math ( iOS and Android ) seeks to do for math what the bedtime story does for literacy, by turning math into an enjoyable bonding routine between child and caregiver.

The free app offers a daily word problem for children to solve together with an adult during bedtime or anytime. Each exercise centers on a short narrative or interesting fact and poses questions at four difficulty levels, from pre-K through elementary school.

Why it’s great: Bedtime Math is one of the few children’s educational apps that have been evaluated in a peer-reviewed study . This particular study demonstrated that students who used the app significantly boosted their math scores; it also showed that Bedtime Math can help parents mitigate their own math anxiety , a phenomenon that can negatively affect their children’s attitudes toward math and their ability in the subject. Teacher Jennifer Auten told us she liked that the questions were written at a middle-school reading level, meaning an adult must facilitate the discussion but you have a choice of four levels of difficulty based on the child’s age and math level.

Apps for visual math: DragonBox Numbers and DragonBox Big Numbers

DragonBox Numbers (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Visual numeracy.

Cute Nooms help kids visualize and conceptualize numbers and arithmetic operations.

DragonBox Big Numbers (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

More-complex arithmetic.

Kids follow characters called Nooms on adventures, solving long addition and subtraction equations in the process.

Ages: 4 to 8 and 6 to 9

How it works: DragonBox Numbers ( iOS , Android , and Amazon ), aimed at kids 4 through 8, introduces number sense, addition, and subtraction through cute characters called Nooms. (The characters are designed to resemble Cuisenaire rods , math learning aids that introduce kids to arithmetic operations in a hands-on way.) Kids feed, slice, and sort the Nooms, developing familiarity with addition, subtraction, fractions, and ranges. In DragonBox Big Numbers ( iOS , Android , and Amazon ), for kids 5 through 9, players follow the Nooms on more complex adventures, solving long addition and subtraction equations in order to gather and trade resources.

Why it’s great: The Nooms function as digital versions of what classroom teachers call math manipulatives , physical learning aids that help young children understand theoretical math concepts in a concrete way. For older kids, the DragonBox series continues on with algebra and Euclidean geometry.

Many great apps teach coding to kids as young as preschool and progressing through upper elementary grades. We’ve highlighted four of these apps because they’re particularly easy to get started with and don’t require reading or, for the child or the parent, a coding background. Regardless of what app they use, parents should think of coding apps as a family activity, said Pat Yongpradit of Code.org . “You will rarely have such a rich media experience as you can when coding with your kid,” he said.

Coding puzzles for beginners: Lightbot and Lightbot Jr

Lightbot (iOS and Android)

Coding puzzles.

The app’s simple puzzle challenges are easy to jump into for kids and adults with no previous coding experience.

Lightbot Jr (iOS and Android)

Coding puzzles for younger kids.

A slower-paced, easier set of puzzles for kids as young as preschool.

Ages: 9 and up (Lightbot); 4 to 8 (Lightbot Jr)

How it works: In Lightbot ( iOS and Android ), kids solve a series of simple puzzles by lining up commands that make a robot advance over obstacles and light up squares. As they master basic concepts, they add more-complex commands, such as conditionals, loops, and nested statements. Lightbot Jr ( iOS and Android ) follows a similar structure but at a slower pace and with simpler challenges that focus on reinforcing the basics. A minimal amount of reading is required, so pre-readers may need adult help at the beginning.

Why it’s great: Project Lead The Way (PLTW), a nonprofit educational organization that promotes and develops STEM curricula and resources, told us, “The best apps for young students without previous experience are those that teach and help build logic and reasoning skills [and] critical thinking skills, and provide brain teasers.” PLTW’s curriculum writers like the Lightbot and Lightbot Jr apps as ways to get kids as young as 4 started with the basic concepts and logical structures of coding.

A creative coding app: ScratchJr

ScratchJr (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Visual programming.

Using graphical coding blocks, ScratchJr lets kids animate characters and create storylines.

Ages: 5 and up

How it works: In ScratchJr ( iOS , Android , Amazon ), kids select characters and backdrop scenes and drag graphical programming blocks, which snap together like puzzle pieces, to make animation sequences and storylines. Although the app has some written cues, the programming blocks largely use symbols (such as arrows and stop signs) to indicate what they do (such as move the character forward or make them stop). As kids become familiar with how to structure the code, they can create multi-scene stories.

Why it’s great: ScratchJr isn’t lesson-based (though you can consult a variety of curricula and tutorials for the app) but rather designed to give kids a sandbox in which to experiment, learn, and create through trial and error (the app offers sample animations as well). Pat Yongpradit of Code.org , which recommends ScratchJr among other coding apps and games, noted one particular benefit: “It’s very free-form; you’re not basically being directed down a particular path.” Younger kids will need an adult or older child to guide them as they get familiar with ScratchJr .

An app for hands-on coding: Osmo Coding Awbie

Osmo Coding (iOS)

Tangible coding.

The Osmo system uses physical game pieces in conjunction with the device’s screen, making scripting and coding tangible and accessible for pre-readers.

Ages: 5 to 12

How it works: Osmo Coding Awbie requires a base system—a stand and a mirror that attach to the device’s camera and that are compatible with other Osmo games —for the iPad , iPhone , and Amazon Fire . The system allows players to use physical pieces to interact with the screen-based game. Kids use bricks marked with commands, arrows, numbers, and loops to create scripts that direct a silly character through mazes and challenges, picking up prizes such as strawberries.

Why it’s great: Teacher Jennifer Auten, who uses Osmo Coding Awbie and other Osmo games in her classroom, said the fact that it combined an app with physical pieces made kids more patient and thoughtful as they worked through the challenges: “When something is purely on the screen, kids will sometimes end up just tapping as fast as they can, randomly guessing. With the manipulatives, it slows their thinking down.” Auten also noted that the physical pieces made it easier to play the game with multiple people, fostering discussion, collaboration, and group problem-solving. She also likes that Osmo Coding Awbie is open-ended: “Kids can explore and create their own paths.”

In this category we chose these three apps—focused on anatomy, the natural world, and space—because they offer kids unique, open-ended ways to explore science topics. Each app encourages kids to meander, linger, and dive deeper at their own pace.

An app to see what’s inside: The Human Body

The Human Body (iOS and Android)

Seeing what’s inside.

The Human Body offers a visually and aurally interesting way to wander through the body’s organs, systems, and functions.

How it works: In The Human Body ( iOS and Android ), kids explore anatomy by jumping around to different organs and systems—for example, watching a mouth chew food and swallow drink, sliding into a stomach breaking down food, and following flashing nerve signals as they race up to the brain.

Why it’s great: The Human Body focuses less on teaching kids specific anatomical lessons and more on sparking wonder and fascination toward the body and what it can do. The app’s engaging visuals are neither cartoonish nor graphic, and the thoughtful sound effects are as compelling and instructive as the animations: Gurgles, wooshes, creaks, and spurts give kids a visceral sense of what’s happening inside them. You can toggle on or off the text labels that identify the systems and organs, but no reading is required to get deep into the app, making it equally accessible to pre-readers.

An app for discovering nature: Toca Nature

Toca Nature (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Natural-world building.

Toca Nature is an open-ended building app—similar to Minecraft—where kids can explore and shape the terrain, collect resources, and observe wildlife.

Ages: 4 and up

How it works: In Toca Nature ( iOS , Android , Amazon ), kids start with a simple plot of land where they can raise or lower mountains, create lakes, clear or plant forests, and make deserts. They can zoom in to different areas of their terrain to collect and distribute resources (like mushrooms, fish, or berries). As they change and shape the environment, different kinds of animals, plants, and fish will appear, multiply, migrate, or disappear.

Why it’s great: Similar to popular narrative-less building games like Minecraft , Toca Nature harnesses the enjoyment kids get from open-ended creating, wandering, and exploring games, with a unique focus on the natural world. Common Sense Media senior editor Christine Elgersma said that an app like Toca Nature doesn’t have explicit learning goals—it’s not trying to teach kids the names of animals or types of terrain, for example—but rather is “an exploratory app with experiences that a kid really couldn’t have off screen.” By creating and manipulating the environment, and then observing how the plant and wildlife change as a result, kids can see how animals, resources, and the environment interact.

An app for exploring space: Professor Astro Cat’s Solar System

Professor Astro Cat’s Solar System (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Cats in space.

Explore the solar system with a jet-propelled cat.

Ages: 8 to 12, or 6 and up with an adult

How it works: Kids explore the app much as they would read a book, delving into facts, illustrations, and animations about planets, moons, stars, and space exploration. At various points, quizzes and other challenges let you earn sardine treats for Professor Astro Cat.

Why it’s great: Jana Grcevich , an astronomer, science educator, and author , told us she enjoyed the Professor Astro Cat app ( iOS , Android , and Amazon ), along with the popular book series it’s based on, with her then 6-year-old niece. The app requires reading, but the entertaining storyline and fascinating facts make it fun for adults along with younger children.

Social and emotional learning , which includes self-awareness, empathy, communication skills, and building relationships, among other capacities, has increasingly been recognized as a critical component of children’s education. These three apps let young kids explore different aspects of self-expression, emotions, and social play.

An app for self-expression: Me: A Kid’s Diary

Me: A Kid's Diary (iOS)

A digital diary.

This app lets kids explore self-expression through drawing, writing, photos, and audio and video.

Ages: 7 and up

How it works: Kids create a digital diary of their lives by answering questions about themselves; making avatars for family members, friends, and other loved ones; and designing their own media. Kids navigate all these entries on their Me Map, a sort of multimedia landscape of their lives.

Why it’s great: Me: A Kid’s Diary helps kids creatively document their feelings, experiences, and loved ones through different media and modes of expression. In some ways, the app offers an experience akin to social media—uploading photos, making videos, writing reflections, and mapping personal connections—but in an entirely closed environment (there’s no actual communication or sharing within the app). This can create a space for kids to start to explore (and for parents to discuss) digital self-expression and sharing.

An app for emotions: Daniel Tiger’s Grr-ific Feelings

Daniel Tiger's Grr-ific Feelings (iOS, Android, and Amazon)

Exploring emotions.

The beloved PBS character helps young kids identify, act out, and explore their feelings through games, songs and creative activities.

Ages: 2 to 5

How it works: Kids explore the familiar world of the PBS Kids series Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood ( iOS , Android , Amazon ) through simple games, songs, and art activities that focus on identifying and exploring feelings and emotions. It offers different ways for kids to practice, talk about, and experience emotions, such as by drawing a picture, taking a photo of themselves feeling angry or happy, or practicing a calming exercise with Daniel Tiger.

Why it’s great: The app is simple and accessible for very young kids, with frequent verbal cues and reminders to help them through the easily navigable interface. “Even without the Daniel tie-in, it could actually still be a pretty successful app for teaching a lot of social, emotional, and self-care skills,” said Harry Sawyers, Wirecutter senior editor and father of three. “But having the familiar characters and songs really helps jump-start their interest if, for example, they ‘have to go potty—stop, and go right awaaaaay!’”

An app for social play: Toca Tea Party

Toca Tea Party (iOS)

Tea for two (or more).

Toca Tea Party presents the elements of a tea party—drinks, desserts, and dishes—for unstructured imaginative play.

Ages: 2 and up

How it works: Toca Tea Party couldn’t be simpler: You set a tea table with plates, cups, drinks, and treats for three guests, and the rest is up to your imagination. There’s no objective beyond pouring drinks, munching treats, and wiping up spills, and the app has a built-in end point: Once you’ve finished the snacks and beverages, the table clears itself and the dishes drop into a sink, ending the party.

Why it’s great: Toca Tea Party isn’t so much a game as a scene for unstructured imaginative and social play for young children. Kids can play alone (perhaps by inviting dolls or stuffed animals as guests) or with one or two others—a unique feature for a tablet game to pull off well. My two daughters, now 4 and 5, haven’t tired of Toca Tea Party after two years, and their play centers on chatting, pretending, and sharing.

An app for reading: Epic! ebook subscription

Epic! e-book subscription

Endless ebooks.

This app allows young readers to choose from up to 35,000 different books for a low monthly cost.

How it works: For $8 a month, kids gain access to some 35,000 children’s books in an intuitively designed app. Epic’s library is updated regularly with new titles, including classics and the site’s original content. Many of the picture books have a “Read to me” function, where a narrator reads the text aloud and the pages turn automatically. The app also suggests books by age and based on what a child has previously read, allowing kids to easily discover new titles at their reading level. Epic! works on iOS, Android and Microsoft tablets and smartphones.

Why it’s great: While some subscription kids’ e-book apps tend to be populated with the kinds of uninteresting titles you’d find in a bookstore bargain bin, Epic! offers an impressive library of children’s books, including many of the beloved classics and award-winning authors you’d find in a well-curated children’s library. (The Wizard of Oz, with the original 1900 illustrations, was one memorable find that gave us many nights of rapt bedtime reading.) The app is simple enough to use that both of my daughters can independently browse books by the cover art and find what interests them—even though they are both pre-readers. Fairy tales abound, but I’ve also found them paging through books about geology, Ramadan, and coding.

Since we began researching learning apps in 2016, we’ve spoken with a range of experts, including a classroom teacher, a child developmental psychologist, a pediatrician, an astronomer, education researchers, app developers, and others.

These have included Kathy Hirsh-Pasek , a professor of psychology at Temple University who has written about and conducted research studies on educational apps for young children; Jennifer Auten , an award-winning teacher in Cupertino, California, who has been using tablet and smartphone apps in her first- and second-grade curricula since the iPad was released in 2010; Christine Elgersma , senior editor, parent education, for Common Sense Media, an organization focused on children’s media; and Pat Yongpradit , chief academic officer at Code.org, a nonprofit that advocates for computer science education. Last, we’ve spoken with parents on our staff for recommendations of apps they and their kids love in categories such as science, music, and coding.

We read articles and reports from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and child developmental psychologists and educational researchers to learn about kids’ media use and about principles for designing learning apps. Finally, we read through reviews and ratings from well-regarded children’s media sites such as Common Sense Media .

Similar to what we found when researching learning toys , we discovered that developers and app stores often label apps as “educational” with little research or evidence, and few experts, to support those claims. In 2016, the AAP released a broad report on children’s use of digital media, calling for more-rigorous evaluation of apps that claim to be educational: “Unfortunately, very few of the commercially available apps found in the educational section of app stores have evidence-based design input with demonstrated learning effectiveness.” Similarly, in a 2015 article , Hirsh-Pasek writes that educational apps “present a significant opportunity for out-of-school, informal learning when designed in educationally appropriate ways” but notes later on that “[o]nly a handful of apps are designed with an eye toward how children actually learn.”

Experts are still studying what makes learning apps successful pedagogical tools, as well as fun and interesting activities for kids. But after speaking with experts, reading research, and trying out apps ourselves, we identified a few features that seem to be common among great learning apps.

• Offer unique experiences: Several of the experts we spoke to noted that a good educational app should offer children something they couldn’t simply do, learn, or explore in a classroom or the real world. If the app is “basically a worksheet on screen, [or] an experience that could be replicated off screen, then that’s not a good use of the screen,” Elgersma said. “You want it to be an experience that kids could really only have in that screen world.”
• Be open-ended, with limits: Most of the apps in this guide are open-ended in the sense that they encourage kids to independently explore, create, and navigate within the app. But researchers say it’s important to have built-in limits, as well. The AAP has pointed out that digital games have traditionally been designed with rewards and reinforcement designed to keep kids playing as long as possible. The organization recommends that learning apps instead have “automatic ‘stops’ as the default design to encourage children and caregivers to pause the game use and turn to the 3-dimensional world.”
• Be engaging but not distracting: Apps have great potential to engage children through interactive features, but some research has shown that too many bells and whistles can distract children or reduce their comprehension. A good learning app uses interactive, animated, and responsive features to engage kids or enhance their comprehension, not simply to entertain. Hirsh-Pasek has written that parents should evaluate an app’s interactive features and ask: “Do the enhancements actually add value and increase engagement, or do they cause distraction?”
• Encourage interaction: The AAP and other organizations say that learning apps that encourage real-life interaction among multiple people—adult and child, or child and peers—can be especially strong at facilitating learning. The apps in this guide are fun and interesting for kids and adults, and many foster conversation and play outside of the app itself.

As with our guide to learning toys , we focused primarily on apps aimed at kids 3 to 9 years old, though older kids can enjoy many of our recommendations, as well. We chose this age range because, as Hirsh-Pasek has written , “there are so many apps targeted toward [children in this range] that parents and educators do not know how to navigate the marketplace of possibilities.”

All the apps we recommend in this guide adhere to the FTC’s Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act . Among other things, COPPA requires that websites and apps directed at children under age 13 obtain permission from parents before collecting or sharing personal information from children, or targeting them with behavioral advertising. None of the apps in this guide require children to enter personal information in order to use the app’s functions, and none offer social media sharing or connectivity.

Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, et al., Putting Education in “Educational” Apps: Lessons From the Science of Learning , Psychological Science in the Public Interest , April 20, 2015

Yolanda (Linda) Reid Chassiakos, et al., Children and Adolescents and Digital Media , Pediatrics , October 1, 2016

Jana Grcevich, PhD, astronomer, science educator, author , phone interview , December 1, 2016

Jennifer Auten, first- and second-grade teacher, Cupertino, California , phone interview , November 8, 2016

Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, PhD, professor of psychology, Temple University , phone interview , January 8, 2019

Christine Elgersma, senior editor, parent education, Common Sense Media , phone interview , March 12, 2019

Pat Yongpradit, chief academic officer, Code.org , phone interview , April 18, 2019

Meet your guide

Courtney Schley

Courtney Schley, a senior editor covering sleep and appliances, has been at Wirecutter since 2014. She has held several roles at Wirecutter, including research editor, as well as supervising editor of baby and kid coverage.

Further reading

How to Set Up a Remote Learning Space for Your Kids

by Melanie Pinola

With many schools closed this fall, it’s time to set up a remote schoolwork area for kids that’ll make learning a little easier.

Kids Exercise Videos to Help Keep Your Family Moving (and Sane)

by Ingrid Skjong

Free online exercise videos can help everyone from toddlers to teenagers stay active and calm during a coronavirus self-quarantine. These are our favorites.

These Four Video Games Are Fun for the Whole Family

by Haley Perry

If you’re looking for a video game for your next family game night, these are the games we recommend for all ages and skill levels.

8 Time-Tested Sidewalk Games We Love

by Dan Koeppel

Old-school games from the sidewalks of New York are still surprisingly fun—and require not much more than chalk.

25 STEM Activities Easy Enough for Preschoolers

S TEM activities are all the rage in education right now, and for good reason. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) – and the Arts for STEAM – are crucial to kids’ learning and our future. But how to get your younger children interested? They might not be ready for coding , but many preschoolers under age 5 can enjoy some basic STEM principles through play.

Below we've got easy instructions to help you and your budding scientist build an apple boat or a toothpick-marshmallow castle, attempt a pom-pom drop, or indulged in baking soda science. Read on for a list of 25 tried-and-true screen-free STEM activities to do with your preschooler.

For more science experiments for kids of all ages, check out our list of 64 easy science experiments for kids , try our colorful Skittles science experiment , or enjoy one of our magical light experiments for toddlers and preschoolers —all of which can be found in our Guide to Science Experiments for Kids.  Happy discovering!

Before you get started, any good scientist gathers the tools and ingredients they will need. My daughter and I assembled a “tinker box,” and it was refreshing to see how many things we had on hand. Into our tinker box we gathered: popsicle sticks, masking tape, red plastic cups, food coloring, mason jars, cotton balls, plastic utensils, coffee filters, loose change, and toothpicks. Then we were ready to start building, sorting, and experimenting—any time I determined we needed a break from screens!

1. Build an Apple Boat

James may have tried to set sail in a peach, but an apple would have built a sturdier vessel. Learn how to build an apple boat and set sail for the open seas (or nearest bathtub).  

2. Check Out Your Library

Libraries are a great place to discover STEM. Many host all kinds of FREE classes, events, and workshops to introduce their youngest patrons to STEM.

3. Engineer with Marshmallow Shapes

Develop engineering skills while constructing basic shapes out of toothpicks and marshmallows. You can build shapes using the marshmallow as a connector to hold the toothpicks together. Challenge your kid to invent new shapes or build three dimensionally. Make a castle, or a car! Get creative.

RELATED: 25 More Preschool Science Experiments

Coffee-filter chromatography is a fun way to combine art and science. 

4. Experiment with Coffee-Filter Chromatography

This laboratory technique separates pigments to see how many colors it takes to create a marker. With a magic marker draw a thick circle around the center of the coffee filter where the ridged part meets the center. Fold the coffee filter in half and then in half again to create a cone shape. Using a shallow glass of water, set the tip of the filter cone into the water. Be careful not to get the marker ring wet. Watch and observe the colors flow up the paper. Talk about molecules and the uses of chromatography in the lab.

5. Make Magic, aka an Ice Melt

Demonstrate “change of state” by melting ice with salt. Fill a bowl with water, and let it freeze overnight. Add a few drops of liquid water color if you want to color your ice. Remove the ice from the bowl and place on a tray. Simply shake table salt over the ice and watch the magic happen. Talk about the properties of each item that caused this change of state.

6. Sprout Seeds in a Jar

Pour about a teaspoon of Chia seeds into a mason jar and cover with about one cup of water. Using an elastic band, secure a piece of cheese cloth on top and allow to sit over night. In the morning, drain the water. You should see sprouting in a day or two!

7. Test Building (and Reading) Skills with a Solo Cup Tower

Add some literature to your STEM by building this  Cat in the Hat tower  with solo cups and pieces of paper. A basic understanding of physics is required for success!

RELATED: Easy Science Experiments to Do with Kids at Home

Make a baking soda mosaic with just a few ingredients.

8.  Play with Baking Soda Science

A little baking soda and vinegar can open a whole world of fun to tiny scientists. Cover the bottom of a foil tray with baking soda. Fill an ice cube tray with vinegar––for extra fun you can add a drop of food coloring to each compartment. Using a dropper or pipette (great for fine motor skills, too!), watch the baking soda fizz and froth in a chemical reaction.

Once they've mastered this simple version, it's time to up the wow factor, and make a glitter volcano with baking soda !

9. Dissect a Flower

Kids are naturally curious about their natural surroundings. This  flower dissection lets them dive right in to the natural world around them, including a little botany, or plant science.

10. Create a Rain Cloud in a Jar

This is one storm I can handle! This  fun and easy experiment demonstrates how rain forms in clouds, a natural project for little kids who are always curious the sky and everything that falls from it.

11. Plant a Garden

Gardens grow more than just fruits and vegetables; they can plant the seeds for early STEM education. From planning a garden that will attract birds and bees to counting seeds, this project hits all the marks. You might even find yourself talking nitrogen, precipitation, and more advanced subjects.

12. Go on a STEM Hike

Take this show outside, get some fresh air, go for a hike, learn something, AND get some weeding done- then a  STEM hike  is for you.

RELATED: 12 Recycled Crafts for Kids to Celebrate Earth Day

Build a bridge and test its strength.

13. Build a Better Bridge

Use recyclables and household objects to see who among you can build the strongest bridge. How many toys can each bridge hold before collapsing?

14. Make Pyramids with Egg Cartons

If you ever get the feeling that your kid would build the next Great Wall if only you had enough blocks, then egg carton building blocks are for you! Construct towers, pyramids, and more.

15. Build a Pom-Pom Drop

This STEM challenge an be assembled with paper rolls, tape, and a wall, and it looks super cool once constructed. Toddlers will delight in dropping the colored pom-poms through the tubes and watching them come out the other side.

16. Craft a Sugar Cube Masterpiece

Sugar cubes aren't just good for tea and coffee; kids can use them to construct an igloo, ice castle, tower, or anything they can imagine. Just mix a little water and confectioners sugar together until it forms a paste like “cement” to hold your sugar cubes together.

17. Host a Building Contest

Teamwork makes the dream work! When have you ever seen a construction site with ONE person? NEVER! Pool your resources (blocks, cardboard boxes, Manga-tiles, Duplos) and host a construction play date!

18. Paint With Rain

Check out these  five different ways to paint with rain, and make some predictions about the outcomes. Check out more rainy day activities here .

19. Make Seed Bombs

Inch by inch, row by row , somebody make this garden grow! Seed bombs are a fun lesson in mixing proportions, plus kids get a cool finished product, which is always satisfying. Check out a cool recipe for making wildflower seed bombs .  

RELATED : 30 Days of Indoor Activities for Kids

Ready to make water walk to create a rainbow?

20. Turn Water into a Walking Rainbow 

A walking rainbow covers all your hands-on-STEM bases: squirting color, pouring water, making observations, and predicting outcomes. It also looks really pretty, drawing the eyes of little scientists. We had so much fun with this experiment, we not only wrote up exactly how to do it, but we made a video !

21. Make ’em Fly with a Marshmallow Catapult

There’s a lot of science behind making those marshmallows fly. Learn how to design a catapult .

22. Will it Float or Sink?

Fill a small tub with water. Gather objects from around your house or yard and place them in the tub, pool, or sink. Ask you son or daughter if the object sank or floated and see if you can figure out why. Increase the challenge to see if they can predict which will happen before you drop it in.

23. Grow Food from Trash

Instead of tossing out the base of a celery stalk, regrow it into new plants. Place the celery in a small saucer or bowl with water, base side down. Let the celery sit in the water for about a week. New celery will begin growing from the center of the base. After you have a bit of new growth, transfer the plant into a pot with soil.

24. Make a Polymer

Combine glue, water, contact lens solution, and baking soda to create a polymer––more commonly knows as  slime ! 

25. Create Your Own DIY Tinker Kit

Although there are plenty of fancy, STEM subscription boxes for kids these days, you can actually make your own––just as we did––for very little money. Bring it out on any rainy day, or to create an impromptu screen-free moment with your kids. Check out this DIY one using mostly Dollar Store items.

All photos by the author

Talk to our experts

1800-120-456-456

• Learn-and-Grow

Free and Budget-Friendly Online Summer Programs for Kids

Introduction.

As a parent, you know that summer programs are fantastic ways to keep your kids engaged and learning. But why send them out into the scorching sun when they can enjoy the comfort and convenience of on-demand online courses from home? 

With a wide array of options available at their fingertips, your children can explore their interests, develop new skills, and have a blast — all without breaking a sweat. So go ahead, choose the smart, cool alternative free summer programs for kindergarten kids that are sure to steal the spotlight!

In this blog post, we've covered some of the free and budget-friendly online summer programs. Discover the fun of learning with Vedantu’s digital summer camp offerings , where your child can gain new skills through playful activities. Join now!

Importance of Engaging Kids in Online Summer Activities

Free and budget-friendly online summer programs come with exciting activities, workshops, and camps. Perfect for those who prefer staying indoors or don't have local options, these programs promise to banish boredom and spark joy in your children's summer break!

Here’s how these programs are beneficial:

Convenience: They provide a flexible schedule, allowing your kids to participate from the comfort of home without the hassle of commuting

Variety: There's a wide range of programs available, catering to different interests and age groups, from coding and science to art and language

Skill Development: These programs help kids develop new skills, keep their minds active, and prevent the " summer slide " where they might lose some of the knowledge gained during the school year

Social Interaction: Though virtual, the budgeted programs we have enlisted in this guide often provide opportunities for social interaction, helping kids stay connected with peers

Types of Online Summer Programs

1. STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) Camps

Give your child the gift of discovery and the joy of learning through a STEAM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics — where every day is an adventure in learning and creativity. It’s more than just a camp; it’s a launchpad for your child’s future!

By enrolling them in a STEAM camp, you're opening doors to a universe where they can:

Tinker with robotics

Paint their future through art

Solve complex puzzles with math

Build critical thinking and problem-solving skills 

These camps aren't just about absorbing facts; they're about applying them in fun, interactive ways that resonate with curious young minds. Plus, they'll make new friends who share their enthusiasm and curiosity. 

Does your kindergarten have a knack for numbers? Boost their math skills with Vedantu's Mental Math course! Help them build confidence and speed in math. Sign up today!

2. Creative Arts and Crafts Workshops

Enrolling your children in creative arts and crafts workshops can boost their creativity and strengthen your bond.

Kids delightedly dabble in colors, textures, and shapes, transforming simple materials into extraordinary works of art. These workshops are more than just fun; they're a playground for imagination and self-expression. 

As your child explores various artistic techniques, they'll not only enhance their fine motor skills but also think outside the box. So, why not let their creativity soar?

3. Academic Enhancement Classes

Think of academic enhancement classes as your secret weapon to help your kindergartners ace those big tests! These camps are like personal trainers for your child’s brain, sharpening their skills in critical reading, math, and writing. Signing up means they’ll get tailored strategies and practice on real test questions, enhancing their confidence and scores.

Why Should You Jump on this?

Well, higher test scores can open doors to better colleges and more scholarship opportunities. It’s not just about improving grades — it’s about giving your children the best shot at their dream schools and easing the financial burden of higher education when they grow older. 

Plus, these classes teach valuable study habits and time management skills that will serve children well beyond test day. So, consider enrolling your little one in these prep camps; it's an investment in their future that pays off big time!

1. Language Learning Programs

Remember how tricky it was to order a meal or find your way around on trips because you didn't speak the local language? Why should your lovable ones face the same hurdles? 

Enrolling them in language learning programs is not just to say 'hello' and 'thank you' in a different language; it's about immersing them in new cultures and ways of thinking.

How proud your inner child feels seeing they converse in Spanish, French, or Mandarin. Being bilingual or multilingual not only enhances cognitive and social skills but also opens up incredible opportunities for their future, from better career prospects to deeper cultural experiences.

It goes without saying, kids pick up new languages much easier than adults, so why not take advantage of these formative years? Give them the gift of language — it's a tool that will benefit them for a lifetime.

Also Read: Vedantu’s Spelling Bee Master Course that includes spelling bingo and scrabble/word search with events and prizes for your little one’s communicative skills!

2. Skill Development Sessions 

Ever thought about letting your kindergartner dive into the world of coding and video game creation? You may just think they’re playing around on computers, but are building a bright future. 

By learning to code, your kids will develop:

Problem-solving skills

A knack for innovation

And making their own video games? It teaches them:

Storytelling

Logical thinking

And, they get a kick out of playing games they've created themselves! So, why not give them a head start in the digital age? Get them into Vedantu’s online coding and game design classes — it’s a blast and super beneficial!

Top Picks for Free and Budget-Friendly Online Summer Programs

Of course, you've probably thought about keeping your kids learning and engaged this summer, but maybe you're worried about the cost, right? No worries! These  leading free summer programs for kindergarten kids out there that won't strain your wallet.

Want to give your kids a summer they'll never forget? Vedantu's Around the World in 14 Days is a whirlwind tour from Istanbul to Los Angeles, all from the comfort of your home. Each session dives into the unique culture, arts, and sights of different cities through interactive virtual tours and creative activities.

With camp tailored for two age groups, 4-8 years and 9-12 years, your children will join a small, lively group of up to 20 campers. They'll get to explore the world in just 10 sessions, each lasting an hour — perfect for holding their attention. And, they’ll end their journey with a virtual party, sharing crafts and performances they’ve created along the way.

So why not enroll them? It's a chance to expand their horizons, meet new friends, and learn about the world in the most entertaining way.

2. Camp Wonderopolis

Are you wondering about providing a rich learning experience to your kids without breaking the bank? And do they fall into the 5-13 age group? You’re in the right place! Camp Wonderopolis is an ideal free online summer camp choice for them. 

Created by the National Center for Families Learning, it's one of the coolest educational hubs around. Their primary focus is on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and literacy.

Camp Wonderopolis isn't just about keeping your little ones busy during the summer — it's about fueling their curiosity and learning in a fun, interactive way. It's all from the comfort of home and completely free, so watch them become little innovators.

3. Michael's

Haven’t you checked out Michael's Craft Workshops yet? It’s offering over 40 free craft sessions just for kids to empower their imagination. From knitting and painting to all sorts of unique crafts, they can take part in new classes every week to try something new.

Your kiddos should join in as these workshops are a treasure chest of learning and skill-building at all levels, providing the materials and tools needed for each project. 

If life gets busy and you miss a class, no sweat! Michael's has videos of past classes so you can catch up anytime. Your kindergartners make friends with similar interests, and bring home some beautiful handmade projects. So why not help your child prepare for a new hobby and be artsy crafty this summer?  

4. CreativeBug

As the name suggests, Creativebug is this awesome online platform where kids (and even you!) can dive into the world of arts and crafts with their STEAM-focused sessions. The best part? The first 60 days are totally free!

Creativebug offers a whole bunch of fun workshops where they can learn to paint, knit, crochet, sew, and even screen print. It's the perfect spot for your young creators to explore different crafts and pick up some cool skills along the way.

Getting involved in these programs means your kids will not only unleash their creativity but also enhance their problem-solving skills and attention to detail — all essential for STEAM learning. In addition, they’ll have a blast making their own unique projects.

Want to keep their minds active and their hands busy? Read Vedantu’s overview about the art of crafting for school students . Who knows? You might just have a budding artist at home!

5. Varsity Tutors 

You can access over 100 classes for various grades at free of cost? Yes! With Varsity Tutors, everything is possible! 

Their online summer classes cover everything from core subjects to cool electives like video game design. 

These aren't your average online courses; they're interactive, live sessions taught by some of the brightest minds 

Each class is designed to spark curiosity and a love of learning, with plenty of room for Q&A and personalized attention

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Summer Programs

It's natural to have some questions. Here are some common inquiries from parents about online summer programs:

1. What are the benefits of online summer programs?

Online summer programs offer a flexible and convenient way for children to continue learning and exploring their interests during the summer. They help maintain academic skills, introduce new hobbies, and keep kids engaged and intellectually active.

2. Are these programs just for older kids, or can younger children participate too?

Online summer programs cater to a wide range of ages, including options for younger children. Programs are typically designed with age-appropriate content to ensure that kids of all ages can participate and benefit.

3. How do online summer programs keep things fun and interesting?

These programs often incorporate interactive activities, games, and group projects to make learning fun. Many also use multimedia elements like videos, animations, and live interactions with instructors to keep students engaged.

4. Can my child interact with peers in online summer programs?

Yes, most online programs include interactive components where students can collaborate with peers through forums, group activities, and live discussions. This helps build social skills and enhances the learning experience.

5. Are online summer programs expensive?

There are a variety of programs available, ranging from free courses to premium options. Many organizations strive to keep these programs accessible, offering scholarships or sliding scale fees to ensure that more children can participate.

The positive experiences other parents and kids have had with these camps can really paint a picture of the fun and learning your child could have. For working parents, these programs can be a real lifesaver, offering a convenient and reliable option to keep your little ones engaged and growing over the summer months. 

Acknowledged the value and impact of free and budget-friendly online summer programs for kids? 

Why not give it a shot? Ensure your kindergarten enjoys a productive summer so you can breathe easy and watch them thrive! Continue to chat with Vedantu to realize the dreams you have for their education.

• Math for Kids
• Parenting Resources
• ELA for Kids
• Teaching Resources

How to Teach Number Formation in 5 Easy Steps

13 Best Resources for Math Videos for Kids: Math Made Fun

How to Teach Skip Counting to Kids in 9 Easy Steps

10 Best Math Intervention Strategies for Struggling Students

How to Teach Division to Kids in 11 Easy Steps

Developmental Milestones for 4 Year Olds: The Ultimate Guide

Simple & Stress-Free After School Schedule for Kids of All Ages

When Do Kids Start Preschool: Age & Readiness Skills

Kindergarten Readiness Checklist: A Guide for Parents

How to Choose Best School For Your Kid: 12 Best Tips

15 Best Literacy Activities for Preschoolers in 2024

12 Best Poems About Teachers Who Change Lives

6 Effective Ways to Improve Writing Skills

40 Four Letter Words That Start With A

What Are the Stages of Spelling Development: Ultimate Guide

13 Best Online Teaching Tips for Teachers

How to Teach Kids to Write in 9 Easy Steps

13 Challenges for Teachers and How to Address Them

12 Best Qualities of a Good Teacher

15 Best Innovative Tech Tools for Teachers

1. Sound Jump

2. mad libs, 3. word search puzzles, 4. word jumble, 5. crossword puzzles for kids, 6. interactive reading, 7. letter matching , 8. story sequencing, 9. writing journals, 10. comic book creation.

Are you looking for ways to support your preschooler’s literacy development? Literacy activities for preschoolers are essential for building foundational skills in reading and writing, which are crucial for their future academic success.

SplashLearn: Most Comprehensive Learning Program for PreK-5

SplashLearn inspires lifelong curiosity with its game-based PreK-5 learning program loved by over 40 million children. With over 4,000 fun games and activities, it’s the perfect balance of learning and play for your little one.

This blog will cover what literacy skills entail for preschoolers , outline the benefits of engaging them in language and literacy activities, and provide practical activities to enhance their learning. 

Sound Jump is a dynamic way to blend physical activity with language literacy activities for preschoolers. To set up, place letters on the floor, either using paper cutouts or letter mats. Call out different sounds, and have the children jump to the letter that corresponds with the sound you made. This activity not only helps with phonics and letter recognition but also keeps learning active and enjoyable, making it a perfect blend of movement and education.

Mad Libs offer a creative approach to learning parts of speech, making them a hit among language activities for preschoolers. Start with a simple story that has blanks for nouns, verbs , adjectives, etc. Ask the children to provide random words to fill in these blanks, and then read the story aloud. The humorous outcomes not only engage the children but also teach them about parts of speech in a context that’s fun and memorable.

Get started with this printable mad lib:

Word search puzzles are excellent tools for reinforcing vocabulary and spelling in an engaging way, making them a great choice for preschool language activities. Create puzzles that focus on a theme or a set of vocabulary words the child is currently learning. This activity not only aids in pattern recognition but also enhances spelling skills as children look for words within the grid. It’s a quiet, focused activity that can complement the more active games in your literacy toolkit.

Start with these fun word search worksheets :

Word Jumble is a playful challenge that supports literacy for preschoolers by encouraging them to manipulate letters to form words. Present a set of jumbled letters to the children and ask them to rearrange them to create a word. For younger preschoolers, opt for shorter words or provide a visual hint to guide them. This activity not only enhances their understanding of word structure but also improves their spelling skills, making it a fun and educational task.

Crossword puzzles can be tailored as preschool language art activities, designed with simple words and clues that match the children’s vocabulary level. Creating or finding age-appropriate crossword puzzles encourages children to think about words and their meanings, promoting their vocabulary development. As they work to fill in the blanks, they practice spelling and learn new words, making crosswords a valuable addition to pre k literacy activities.

Interactive Reading transforms storytime into an active learning experience, crucial for fostering literacy in preschoolers. As you read a story, pause to ask questions about the plot, predict what might happen next, and discuss the characters’ actions. This method not only improves listening and comprehension skills but also encourages children to think critically about the story. Incorporating interactive reading into your routine supports a deeper engagement with books, laying a strong foundation for lifelong reading habits.

The Letter Matching is a fundamental literacy activity for preschoolers that combines learning with play. In this activity, children then match the letter to the correct picture, reinforcing their understanding of the alphabet and initial sounds. This activity not only enhances letter recognition but also builds vocabulary, making it a core part of literacy activities for preschoolers.

Begin with these letter matching worksheets:

Story Sequencing is an engaging way to develop narrative skills and comprehension. After reading a story, provide the children with pictures or sentences from the tale and ask them to arrange them in the order they occurred. This activity supports critical thinking and helps children understand the structure of stories, making it a valuable addition to literacy activities for preschoolers.

Once they understand how sequencing works, you can get started with these sequencing worksheets :

Introducing Writing Journals at a young age fosters creativity and expression. Provide preschoolers with a notebook where they can draw or write about their day, thoughts, or stories. This practice not only encourages them to express themselves but also supports early writing skills, positioning it as a key component of pre k literacy activities.

Creating a Comic Book allows children to dive into storytelling and art. Encourage preschoolers to create their comic strips, using a combination of drawings and text to tell a story. This activity blends creativity with literacy, teaching children about narrative structure, dialogue, and sequencing. It’s a fun and imaginative way to promote literacy for preschoolers, making it a standout choice among preschool language art activities.

11. Word Sort

Word Sort is a simple yet effective literacy preschool activity that helps children categorize words into different groups. You can use themes like animals, colors, or shapes. This activity encourages critical thinking as children decide on which category each word belongs to, enhancing their vocabulary and comprehension skills. It’s a hands-on way to explore language and is perfectly suited for literacy activities for 3-4 year olds .

Get started with these word sorting worksheets :

12. Letter of the Day

Focusing on a ‘Letter of the Day’ is a fantastic way to immerse preschoolers in the alphabet. Each day, choose a different letter and organize activities around it, such as identifying objects that start with that letter or practicing its sound. This approach keeps learning fresh and exciting, making it a cornerstone of literacy preschool activities.

13. Cause and Effect Story Time

During Cause and Effect Story Time, read a story to the children and then discuss the events, focusing on the cause and effect within the narrative. This activity develops critical thinking and comprehension skills by encouraging children to think about why things happen in a story. 

Test their understanding with these Cause and Effect worksheets :

14. “What Happens Next?” Stories

“What Happens Next?” Stories stimulate imagination and prediction skills. Pause a story at a pivotal moment and ask the children what they think will happen next. This activity encourages them to use clues from the story to make inferences about future events, fostering early analytical skills. It’s a dynamic method to engage with stories, making it a valuable part of literacy preschool activities.

Once your child has mastered prediction, you can start using these prediction worksheets to test their skills:

15. Making Connection in Reading Worksheet

This activity helps develop deeper comprehension skills as children learn to see connections between the text and the world around them. It’s an introspective and meaningful activity that supports the broader goals of literacy activities for 3-4 year olds.

Begin with these worksheets:

4 Benefits of Language and Literacy Activities for Preschoolers

1. Enhances Vocabulary and Language Skills: Engaging in literacy preschool activities helps children expand their vocabulary and improve their language skills. Through stories, games, and discussions, they learn new words and how to use them effectively in communication.

2. Boosts Phonemic Awareness: Literacy activities for 3-4 year olds are designed to enhance phonemic awareness . Activities like sound Jump and letter matching game help children recognize and manipulate sounds in words, a crucial skill for reading and spelling.

3. Encourages Creativity and Imagination: Language and literacy activities provide a platform for children to express themselves creatively. Whether it’s through storytelling, drawing , or playing pretend, these activities stimulate their imagination and encourage creative thinking.

4. Supports Cognitive Development: Participating in literacy activities from a young age supports overall cognitive development. Children learn to think critically, solve problems, and understand complex concepts through engaging and interactive learning experiences.

Engaging kids in language and literacy activities lays a strong foundation for their future learning and development. By incorporating these fun and educational literacy activities for preschoolers into their daily routine, you’re not only enhancing their literacy skills but also fostering a lifelong love for reading and learning .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are literacy skills for preschoolers.

Literacy skills for preschoolers include recognizing letters and sounds, understanding the basics of print (such as reading from left to right), beginning to write letters and their name, developing a vocabulary, and listening comprehension skills through stories and interactive reading.

How do you teach preschool literacy?

Teach preschool literacy by incorporating interactive and engaging activities that involve reading , writing , speaking, and listening . Use games, storytelling, and hands-on activities to make learning fun and meaningful.

What activities encourage early literacy?

Activities like reading aloud, letter matching games, story sequencing, and interactive reading encourage early literacy by building foundational skills in a fun and engaging way.

What is an example of information literacy activities?

An example of information literacy activities includes teaching children how to find and use information from books or digital sources, such as using a simple online search with guidance or finding a book in the library on a specific topic.

Most Popular

15 Best Report Card Comments Samples

101 Best Riddles for Kids (With Explanation)

40 Best Good Vibes Quotes to Brighten Your Day

Recent posts.

12 Best Communication Activities for kids of All Ages

15 Best Activities for Homeschoolers

Math & ela | prek to grade 5, kids see fun., you see real learning outcomes..

Watch your kids fall in love with math & reading through our scientifically designed curriculum.

Parents, try for free Teachers, use for free

• Games for Kids
• Worksheets for Kids
• Math Worksheets
• ELA Worksheets
• Math Vocabulary
• Number Games
• Addition Games
• Subtraction Games
• Multiplication Games
• Division Games
• Addition Worksheets
• Subtraction Worksheets
• Multiplication Worksheets
• Division Worksheets
• Times Tables Worksheets
• Reading Games
• Writing Games
• Phonics Games
• Sight Words Games
• Letter Tracing Games
• Reading Worksheets
• Writing Worksheets
• Phonics Worksheets
• Sight Words Worksheets
• Letter Tracing Worksheets
• Prime Number
• Order of Operations
• Long multiplication
• Place value
• Parallelogram
• SplashLearn Success Stories
• SplashLearn Apps
• [email protected]

© Copyright - SplashLearn

Make study-time fun with 14,000+ games & activities, 450+ lesson plans, and more—free forever.

Parents, Try for Free Teachers, Use for Free

Best Sites and Apps for Special Education

These top special education sites and apps are designed for teachers, students and families

As of 2020-21, 14.5% of all U.S. students were special education students (ages 3-21). That translates to more than seven million who need teachers with specialized training to help kids with physical, emotional, mental and behavioral disabilities. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates that these students be educated with non-disabled peers to the greatest extent possible, in the least restrictive environment, and these apps and sites for special education can help. 

When teachers improve their ability to engage and educate special ed learners, they’re simply fulfilling another version of individualized learning. Fortunately, in addition to graduate-level coursework, there are several high-quality online resources to help any teacher learn the theory and practice of working with kids with disabilities. 

The following sites and apps provide lessons and activities for special needs learners, as well as professional development tools for teachers. All are free or modestly priced. 

Better Lesson Instructional Strategies Explore a broad range of instructional strategies that, although diverse, all aim to support individualized learning. Choose from social-emotional learning, culturally responsive teaching, competency-based learning, and more. Within each category, learn how to plan, practice, and implement several related strategies. For example, SEL offers detailed guidance on self-regulation, self-awareness, and collaborative conversations. A rich resource for all teachers, not just special ed. 

Sen Teacher   Hundreds of free learning materials for special ed, including customizable printable downloads and interactive games in math, science, sensory/art, and assistive technology. Simple to use, and no account is needed.

TPT: Free Special Education Lessons and Activities   Created, tested, and rated by your fellow teachers, these free special education resources are searchable by subject, grade, standards, and formats. Browse the handwriting practice, sight word activities, life skills, money math, and more to find exactly what you need for your classroom.

MakeBeliefs Comix for Students With Special Needs Learn how teachers across the country are using MakeBeliefsComix to help students with a variety of disabilities—from autism to stuttering—learn and thrive.

Tech & Learning Newsletter

Tools and ideas to transform education. Sign up below.

Autism Circuit Tools This site provides a diverse range of tools to help students make decisions, modulate their behavior appropriately, and understand consequences. Autism Circuit offers guidance and brief videos demonstrating how teachers can use tools such as choice boards in their classrooms. Other tools help students communicate, manage emotions, behaviors, and schedules. 

Do2Learn Do2Learn is a nonprofit website providing free resources, tools, and activities to support educators in teaching children and young adults with special needs. The site includes interactive games, visual aids, and printable materials to engage learners of all ages and abilities. Educators can access a variety of lesson plans and curriculum ideas to create more inclusive and supportive learning environments. 

Microsoft Learning Tools Immersive Reader OneNote Learning Tools provides a free immersive reader to help students boost their reading skills. Want to try it first? Just enter your own text into the box and start reading. Choose male or female voice, font and text size, background color and line focus. Other features allow you to assign color to parts of speech and display words in syllables. Click on any word to view a visual representation and to hear the word spoken. Translates words and entire documents into dozens of languages. Very cool tool, and super easy to use!

Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities Adapted Literature and Lessons  Nearly 500 classic, popular, and/or educational works of literature adapted for students with special needs. The works include digital books, movies, videos, music, and PowerPoint presentations that aim to help students with visual and other disabilities. Want to create your own adapted literature? Check out the Creating Your Own Adapted Literature Webinars explaining how to do so. Free, no account required.

Mindful Schools   Features 10 free mindfulness classes for kids, including activities, mindful movement, and read-alouds. Courses for educators cover mindfulness basics, how to implement mindfulness in the classroom, and self compassion (a must for teachers!).

Otsimo Special Education iOs Android Developed by Zafer Elcik for his young autistic brother, the Otsimo app features a gamified, personalized curriculum for special education. Games focus on everyday basics such as clocks, weather and clothes as well as the alphabet, music, and colors. To view the app games, visit the website here . To play games, you’ll need to download the free app. 

Voice Dream A suite of award-winning apps—Reader, Writer, Scanner—that provides text-to-speech reading, writing, and scanning capabilities in 30 languages. 

AAA Math A no-frills K-8 math practice site that offers thousands of interactive math lessons, from addition to geometry to statistics. It’s easy to use -- just click on any topic or lesson and start practicing. Lessons are served in small, attainable blocks, which aids in preventing frustration. Plus, kids get immediate feedback on their answers. Free, no account needed. 

BoomCards Special Education Decks Great collection of Boom Cards decks covering a wide variety of useful topics such as identifying public bathrooms, WH questions, verbs, modes of transportation, compare-contrast exercises, and more. Many are free or modestly priced, and all are sortable by grade, subject, and cost. Free account required. Want to learn more about how to use Boom cards? Check out What is Boom Cards and How Does It Work?

Autism Focused Intervention Resources and Modules Free modules to help educators and caretakers learn about autism and evidence-based practices. Also available for $35 are continuing education credit modules that cover topics from cognitive behavioral intervention to video modeling. 

Paths to Literacy Lessons and Materials Fine collection of lessons, manipulatives, hands-on activities, videos, and more to support teachers who work with students with visual disabilities, including deafblind students and those with multiple disabilities

SENict Teaching Activities Free downloadable exercises curated to aid young people in advancing their accessibility skills via assistive technology, encompassing switches, touch devices, pointing devices, and eye gaze systems. Download each exercise individually or purchase a convenient memory stick loaded with 600+ activities, training videos, and teacher supports for £25 (about $31 U.S.).

Starfall A well-designed, ad-free site that focuses on making reading and math fun for students pre K-3. Starfall’s founder Stephen Schutz struggled with dyslexia as a child and created Starfall to help kids learn to read—and learn to love learning. Art, music, poetry, riddles, and more keeps kids engaged in the interactive material. Four membership levels range from $35 annually for home use to $355 for a school membership. Each section also includes clearly marked free content, so it’s easy to browse the site and try it out without an account. 

Reading Rockets Reading Intervention Videos These highly instructive free videos feature literacy expert Linda Farrell working with struggling readers on specific reading goals such as mastering the alphabet, multisyllabic words, and blending sounds. Each video is accompanied by professional development guides as well as commentary by Farrell. Be sure to explore the entire Reading Rockets website for a wealth of additional literacy guides and resources. 

• Best Deaf Awareness Lessons & Activities  
• Top Sites for Differentiated Instruction
• Using the Metaverse to Help Students With Intellectual Disabilities  

To share your feedback and ideas on this article, consider joining our Tech & Learning online community  here .

Diana has been Tech & Learning's web editor and contributor since 2010, dedicated to ferreting out the best free tech tools for teachers.

Best Laptops for Teachers

Educator Edtech Review: Makeblock mBot Neo and Ultimate Robotics & Coding Kits

Best VR Headsets for Schools

Most Popular