The following websites are interactive, brightly colored, and full of fun learning for kids from ages 2 up to 13. Some are completely FREE and others offer a FREE trial. Most of the websites offer learning in several subjects such as reading, math, and some science. They also have apps that can be downloaded on several devices to make learning more accessible. Let's get to it!
1. ABC Mouse
ages 2-8
ABC Mouse is an award-winning site that most people have heard of or seen just about everywhere. The lesson setup is similar to a board game and a cute little mouse is used as the game piece or Avatar. Each spot on the map is a lesson and once each lesson is completed the student moves on to the next place on the path. As your child progresses they move on to a harder map until they have finished them all. Once they have completed all maps they can advance on to Adventure Academy.
2. Adventure Academy
ages 8-13
Adventure Academy is the next level up from ABC Mouse and is directed toward older school-aged kids. The theme of the game takes place on a virtual school campus. Learning Kiosks located on the campus offer learning activities, games, and quests for your character. Your child also gets to pick and choose what they want to learn from the kiosk from a variety of sources. As they complete these activities they can earn coins to be used at the gift shops or points to level their characters up. The gift shops are full of items for your character such as clothing, accessories, furniture, etc. As you level up in the game the campus expands and there is much more to explore. There are also real and computer computer-generated players you can interact with. Your kids will have so much fun exploring in this safe environment! Adventure Academy also offers a FREE 30 DAY TRIAL.
3. Hooked On Phonics
ages 3-8
Hooked on Phonics is also an award-winning program that teaches your child how to read in a short amount of time, starting with Pre-K up to second grade. The program comes in several forms. Depending on your child's specific needs and interests you can use workbooks, videos, or both. The videos and games make learning fun for your kids by its captivating presentation. Try the digital version of Hooked on Phonics for as low as $1 for the first month.
4. National Geographic Kids
ages 2-13
National Geographic Kids has been around for a long time. If you've ever heard of National Geographic then you must know that this is just a children's version of that. National Geographic is known for their children's magazines which is read from all over the world and published in several different languages. Their digital content is full of science-based learning through videos and games. Explore nature, space and creatures from all over the world with this fun, attractive and interactive website. COMPLETELY FREE!
5. Noggin
ages 2-6
This site is sure to keep your little one entertained. Noggin is made up of mostly videos and is dedicated to fun interactive learning from some of your children's favorite Nick Jr and Sesame Street characters. This program extends its services out even further than the previously listed sites in that it offers a FREE 60 DAY TRIAL.
6. Prodigy
ages 6-13
Prodigy is a math website that is based on the math curriculum used in many schools today. As your child plays games involving math skills, the program adapts to their strengths and weaknesses. As they progress through the games, they gain knowledge and skill that challenges them as they grow. The great news is that it's FREE!
7. Reading Eggs
ages 2-13
Reading Eggs is an interactive site similar to ABC mouse and teaches your child reading and math. The site is set up in a map format with a path full of lessons. The lessons are composed of fun videos and interactive games. Every time you complete a lesson you get instant feedback and earn eggs which are the points system used here. The eggs that you earn can be used to change your Avatar and to purchase items for your Avatar's home, such as furniture, clothing, and accessories. This site is also divided into several sections for different ages. There is something here for all your little ones from ages 2- 13. You will find the math covered in the Math Seeds Section. Reading eggs offers a FREE TRIAL for all new users.
8. Scholastic
ages 4-9
Scholastic is the world's largest publisher and distributor of children's books. Due to the recent school closures they reached out to help provide additional learning resources for all children. Their Learn at Home Page provides 20 days of Lessons to keep your kids occupied and engaged in learning. Scholastic also has an enormous online library that offers books for FREE reading and for purchase.
Bookflix is the online reading section of Scholastic that lets kids choose a book, read along, play games, and answer questions about what they've read. Very engaging and fun!
9. Starfall
ages 4-8
Starfall teaches children reading, math, and writing in a fun and attractive way. Many lessons are accompanied by printable worksheets and activities for your kiddos if you like. While many of the activities are FREE without an account, some features may not work until you sign up for an account.
10. Teach Your Monster How to Read
ages 4-7
Teach your monster how to read is a fun, free site that teaches your child how to read through fun interactive games that earn them rewards. The learning that takes place involves adopting a monster as your Avatar and then helping him along his journey by completing tasks and engaging with colorful characters throughout.