The range of free online games for kids is fantastic. The best games and apps are not just fun but are also valuable for educational and learning benefits. Here are Future Educators’ choices for the top learning apps for kids.
Best Free Learning Apps for Kids
1. ABCya!
ABCya! features over 400 educational games for children from Pre-K to Grade 6. The games cover math, reading, and creative skills, with many aligned to Common Core Standards. ABCya! is used by over 20 million students and teachers monthly.
Pros: Large variety of games, curriculum-aligned.
Cons: Free version has ads; limited features without premium.
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2. PBS KIDS Games
PBS KIDS Games provides over 250 learning games for toddlers and young kids. Topics include social studies, problem-solving, and science, with familiar PBS characters enhancing engagement.
Pros: No in-app purchases; trusted educational content.
Cons: Limited focus on older children.
3. Funbrain
Funbrain offers a mix of educational games, books, and videos for kids in Pre-K to Grade 8. Subjects like math and reading are taught through interactive play. Funbrain has been a trusted platform since 1997.
Pros: Broad subject range; completely free.
Cons: Older design; some activities lack interactivity.
4. National Geographic Kids
National Geographic Kids introduces children to topics like geography, animals, and history through fun games and activities. It’s a great tool for boosting general knowledge.
Pros: High-quality educational content; visually engaging.
Cons: Limited interactivity compared to other apps.
5. Prodigy Math
Prodigy Math combines fantasy gaming with math lessons for kids from Grade 1 to Grade 8. Used by over 100 million students globally, it’s curriculum-aligned and features quests that encourage learning.
Pros: Immersive game design; widely used by schools.
Cons: Free version limits some game features.
6. SplashLearn
SplashLearn offers games that teach math and reading to kids from Pre-K to Grade 5. Over 40 million children use SplashLearn for personalised learning experiences.
Pros: Adaptive learning; vibrant graphics.
Cons: Premium version needed for extended lessons.
7. Turtle Diary
Turtle Diary includes over 1,000 free games and activities for students in grades K-5. Subjects range from science and language arts to math and geography, with interactive and colourful lessons.
Pros: Comprehensive subject coverage; free access.
Cons: Simple design may not appeal to older kids.
8. GCompris
GCompris is a free, open-source educational software suite for kids aged 2 to 10. Activities cover math, science, reading, and even computer skills like typing and coding.
Pros: Open source and free; multi-platform support.
Cons: Graphics are less modern than other apps.
9. Tux, of Math Command
Tux, of Math Command is a free, arcade-style game teaching arithmetic and problem-solving. Popular with Linux users, it’s designed to make math fun and competitive.
Pros: Engaging arcade style; free for all.
Cons: Limited to math skills; not updated recently.
10. Helpful Games
Helpful Games offers interactive learning games for school-aged children. It supports various subjects and allows progress tracking, custom activities, and printable resources.
Pros: Free access; easy-to-use interface.
Cons: Full features require membership.