I like to think that I’ve been teaching my daughter to read since birth–by reading stories to her on my lap and fostering her love of books. But how do I help her bridge the gap between looking at pictures and actually reading the words on the page herself? A number of apps have been created to help kids work out the fundamentals of phonics, spelling and reading comprehension. Unlike traditional school homework, these apps are supremely engaging, using music, playful animation and reward systems to motivate kids. Here are 7 apps that I’m excited to share with my preschooler:
*This post is sponsored by Amazon.
7 Apps We Love for Teaching Your Child to Read
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Endless Reader
With clever animation that highlights one word at a time, kids are invited to drag and drop letters to spell the word, then use it in a fill-in-the-blank sentence. Even the smallest successes are celebrated with graphic stars and applause sound effects, and who doesn't appreciate a little encouragement? Free. More info
Photo: Originator
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ABCMouse.com
Simple and clear, ABC Mouse reads stories aloud while highlighting the text being read. Need some mom-time? Kids can easily follow along on their own, or caregivers can click on "Parent Tips" for ideas about how to further reinforce the concepts. Free trial available. More info
Photo: ABC Mouse
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Reading Rainbow Learn & Read
Hosted by LeVar Burton, of the long-running PBS series, Reading Rainbow offers kids interactive storybooks, activities and videos designed to build excitement around reading. Simulating a trip to the library, kids can choose books on their favorite topics, such as princesses, animals or pirates. Books are then collected in a virtual backpack and "returned" when finished. (Free trial comes with five books. Paid subscription unlocks hundreds of titles.) More info
Photo: Amazon
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Reading Raven
Each lesson in Reading Raven focuses on just a few letters, so kids won't get overwhelmed by too much information. Completing a lesson earns kids a sticker, which can be used to decorate the Reading Raven's treehouse. Built into the app is a helpful guide for parents explaining how kids progress, from 3-year-olds matching letters to 5-year-olds beginning to read aloud. $3.99. More info
Photo: Reading Raven
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Elmo Loves ABC's
Everybody's favorite muppet narrates this enthusiastic exploration of the alphabet. Kids are invited to trace letters with their fingers, a precursor to writing. Successful tracing unlocks three Sesame Street videos--such as the Cookie Monster classic "C is for Cookie"--which explore words that begin with that letter. Parents might get a little annoyed by the sound of Elmo's voice, but kids will welcome this familiar friend to help them learn. $4.99. More info
Photo: Amazon -
Starfall Learn to Read
This stellar app provides 15 mini books, each focusing on a different vowel sound, such as long "e" or short "a." Within each story unit are animated videos, songs and games that reinforce reading skills in an entertaining way. While clean and easy to navigate, Starfall offers hours of content, making it a great choice for plane rides and long car trips. $2.99. More info
Photo: Starfall
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Duck Duck Moose Reading
Does your child love video games? This might be the app for him. Though educational, exercises are reminiscent of arcade games, such as "feed the alligator all the words that begin with the 'T' sound." And clearing a level earns your kid a new animal for his virtual habitat. A little bribery never hurt, right? $1.99. More info
Photo: Amazon
