NEWSLETTER
In this post, I share this hand-picked list of vocabulary apps for kids. Each app is designed to make vocabulary building an interesting and insightful process, meeting diverse needs and learning styles. From apps that use scientific methods like spaced repetition to those that turn learning into an addictive game, there's something for every child.
These vocabulary apps for kids aren't just about memorizing words; It is about understanding them, using them and integrating them into everyday language. It's about making the learning journey as enriching as the knowledge gained.
Related: Best Vocabulary Apps for Students
Vocabulary apps for kids
Here are our top picks for vocabulary apps for kids
1. WordPal (iOS)
WordPal is a great vocabulary app for kids. It's perfect for a variety of uses, from excellent exams to creative writing, or even for word games like Scrabble. The app's focus on spaced repetition, a scientifically backed learning method, ensures that children learn and retain new words efficiently. The app intelligently identifies the words kids are least confident with and prioritizes them for practice.
The word selection is practical and includes terms commonly used in everyday English, making children's learning directly applicable in everyday conversations. WordPal features include multiple choice questions, clear definitions, context examples, progress tracking with five different levels, and an elegant design.
2. Atlas Vocabulary Builder (iOS & Android alternative)
Atlas, the vocabulary building app, offers an engaging and effective way to help children learn new English words daily. Regardless of your level of proficiency, Atlas caters to everyone. It includes game-like exercises that allow children to practice words in various contexts and accumulate points. The app offers three levels of proficiency: beginner, independent and expert, with the flexibility to adjust the level as needed.
Exercises include combining definitions, studying synonyms, writing words, multiple choice tasks and filling in the blanks, all designed to reinforce learning. Additionally, Atlas emphasizes the importance of review for long-term retention. She can track her child's progress through quizzes, tests, and save words for future reference. Learning in thematic categories further improves memory and accelerates vocabulary growth.
3. Vocabulary.com (iOS and Android)
Vocabulary.com is another powerful vocabulary app for kids. The app offers a comprehensive lifelong vocabulary learning program. It transforms vocabulary learning into an engaging game, making it fun and addictive. The app starts with a broad set of questions and words, tailoring the learning experience using sophisticated algorithms and the science of learning.
The app also personalizes your trip by comparing your answers to millions of users around the world. Vocabulary.com offers several study options, from preparing for standardized tests to learning the latest words in the news. You can choose from ready-to-learn lists or let the app select words based on your level.
4. Word of the day (iOS and Android)
Word of the Day is a good vocabulary app to help children improve their lexical skills and master the language. Ideal for native speakers, ESL learners, or word enthusiasts, this app assesses current vocabulary and then tailors word suggestions to your level and interests. Backed by Oxford Languages, it offers comprehensive content including pronunciations, definitions and example sentences.
The in-house editorial team ensures new and engaging word features every day. With customizable notifications and a widget, learning fits perfectly into everyone's schedule. Kids can store their favorite words in a personal collection and make vocabulary development a daily habit.
5. Vocab Genius by Brainscape (iOS)
Vocab Genius is a vocabulary app that uses cognitive science techniques to optimize learning. Developed by Brainscape, this app has over 1,300 dynamic flashcards covering a wide range of vocabulary and its roots. Unlike many other apps that rely on games or quizzes, Vocab Genius employs a scientifically optimized algorithm to present flashcards in a pattern that maximizes the brain's absorption rate.
The app includes over 800 flashcards for challenging vocabulary words and 300 additional flashcards that focus on word elements such as prefixes, suffixes, and roots. The custom card repetition algorithm, combined with convenient navigation and search features, makes learning effective and easy to use. Visualization, statistics and continuous feedback tools help track progress and provide a comprehensive learning experience.
6. Words above (iOS and Android)
WordUp is a unique artificial intelligence-based English vocabulary building app. Its smart approach to vocabulary building is evident in its features like Vocabulary Builder and Knowledge Map. The app uses advanced algorithms to recommend new words daily, tailored to the user's existing knowledge level. This method guarantees constant and efficient vocabulary expansion. The Knowledge Map feature is particularly innovative and helps students identify gaps in their vocabulary and focus on the most useful English words.
WordUp ranks the 25,000 words in order of importance and usefulness, based on real-world usage in movies and television shows. The app provides comprehensive resources for each word, including definitions, images, and examples from various media, making learning contextual and engaging. Multilingual translations in over 30 languages improve the app's accessibility to a global audience. The spaced repetition feature and daily reviews help memorize words permanently.
7. Magoosh Vocabulary Builder (iOS and Android)
Magoosh's Vocabulary Builder is a free and engaging game designed for iOS and Android devices to improve vocabulary skills. It is aimed at a variety of students, from those preparing for standardized tests like the GRE, SAT, and TOEFL, to anyone interested in improving their vocabulary. The app features 1200 vocabulary words, carefully selected by expert tutors for their importance and usefulness. Each word comes with definitions and example sentences, providing a comprehensive understanding of its usage.
The app classifies vocabulary into basic, intermediate and advanced sections, making it suitable for students of different levels. As users progress through the levels, they unlock new, more challenging words, ensuring continued learning and skill development. The spaced repetition technique used in the app is a proven memorization strategy that ensures that words are mastered effectively.
8. Duolingo (iOS and Android)
Duolingo offers a fun, free, and effective way to learn over 40 languages through short, quick lessons. Its design, crafted by language experts, is loved by millions of people for its engaging approach to developing vocabulary and grammatical skills in multiple languages. Duolingo stands out for its versatility, now extending its learning methodology to Mathematics and Music. Users can develop practical math skills and learn to read music, all within the app's fun, interactive framework.
Duolingo's effectiveness lies in its game-like lessons and endearing characters, which keep users motivated and engaged in their learning journey. Its science-based teaching methodology has been proven to encourage long-term knowledge retention, making it a reliable tool for students. The app also excels at personalizing the learning experience, with features like progress tracking, fun rewards, and achievements.
Final thoughts
As educators, parents, or lifelong learners, these vocabulary apps give us the opportunity to not only improve our children's language skills, but also inspire and facilitate a deeper love of words in them. Remember, expanding our children's vocabulary is more than just adding words to their lexicon; it's about opening doors to new ideas, clearer communication, and a richer understanding of the world around them. With these apps, every word learned is a step toward a more articulate and knowledgeable person.
