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Best Apps for Homework Practice (2026)

Parent-approved apps that make daily homework practice effective and engaging.

STSpellingJoy Team
•Last Updated: March 30, 2026
Child studying with a tablet for homework practice

Our top picks

Our pick
1

SpellingJoy

Best free spelling

SpellingJoy is a 100% free spelling practice platform for K-6 students. Unlimited spelling games, unlimited tests, 134+ word lists, custom list creation, and progress tracking - all completely free with no subscriptions and no hidden costs.

Best for:Free unlimited spelling homework practicePrice:100% FreeGrades:K-6Platforms:Web

Pros

  • 100% free - unlimited games, tests, and lists
  • No subscription or hidden costs ever
  • K-6 curriculum with 134+ word lists

Cons

  • Web-only (no native mobile apps yet)
  • Classroom features coming soon
2

IXL

Best all-subject

IXL is a comprehensive adaptive learning platform covering all subjects from Pre-K through 12th grade.

Best for:Adaptive practice across every subjectPrice:$79-159/yrGrades:Pre-K-12Platforms:Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • Comprehensive K-12 coverage
  • Adaptive learning
  • Detailed analytics

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Spelling is small part of ELA
3

Khan Academy Kids

Best free for young kids

Khan Academy Kids offers free, comprehensive early learning content covering reading, math, and more for children ages 2-8.

Best for:Free early learning homework for ages 2-8Price:FreeGrades:Ages 2-8Platforms:iOS, Android, Amazon

Pros

  • Completely free
  • Comprehensive curriculum
  • No ads

Cons

  • Only goes to age 8
  • Not specialized for spelling
  • No web version
4

Prodigy

Best game-based

Prodigy uses game-based learning to teach math, with a newer English/ELA component.

Best for:Making math homework feel like a gamePrice:$59-180/yrGrades:Grades 1-8Platforms:Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • Engaging game format
  • Free basic version
  • Curriculum aligned

Cons

  • In-game purchase prompts
  • Premium expensive
  • Primarily math-focused
5

ABCmouse

Best for PreK-2

ABCmouse offers a full early learning curriculum with thousands of activities for children ages 2-8.

Best for:Comprehensive early homework supportPrice:$45-59/yrGrades:Ages 2-8Platforms:All platforms

Pros

  • Comprehensive curriculum
  • Engaging content
  • Progress tracking

Cons

  • Requires subscription
  • Only to age 8
6

SplashLearn

Best math + reading

SplashLearn offers game-based math and ELA practice for Pre-K through 5th grade. Known for engaging gameplay that keeps kids motivated.

Best for:Game-based math and ELA homeworkPrice:$80/yrGrades:Pre-K-5Platforms:Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • Strong math AND reading content
  • Game-based learning kids love
  • Personalized learning paths

Cons

  • Premium features require subscription
  • Reading is newer than math content
  • Can be addictive for some kids
7

Kahoot!

Best for review

Kahoot! is a game-based learning platform where teachers create live quizzes that students answer on their devices. Over 9 billion cumulative participants. Free basic plan, paid plans from $48/year.

Best for:Quiz-based homework review sessionsPrice:Free / $48-72/yr (teacher)Grades:K-12Platforms:Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • Free basic plan for teachers
  • Live multiplayer quizzes students love
  • Huge library of user-created kahoots

Cons

  • Free plan limited to 10 players
  • Premium features require paid plans
  • Can be more game than learning

Frequently asked questions

What is the best free homework practice app?

SpellingJoy is 100% free for spelling homework with unlimited games, tests, and 134+ word lists. Khan Academy Kids is the best free option for younger children covering math, reading, and more.

How much homework practice should kids do each day?

The National PTA recommends about 10 minutes per grade level per night (e.g., 20 minutes for 2nd grade). Short, focused app-based sessions of 15-20 minutes are more effective than longer unfocused study.

What is the best app for spelling homework?

SpellingJoy is the best app for spelling homework because it is completely free, covers K-6 with 134+ word lists, includes Dolch and Fry sight words, and offers a placement test to match your child's level.

Are homework apps effective for learning?

Yes, research shows that well-designed educational apps with adaptive learning, immediate feedback, and gamification can improve retention and engagement compared to traditional paper-based homework.

Can homework apps replace tutoring?

Homework apps are excellent supplements but may not fully replace tutoring for students who need individualized attention. Apps like IXL provide adaptive practice, while tools like Khanmigo offer AI tutoring. For most students, apps handle daily practice well.

Our Verdict

SpellingJoy is the best free option for spelling homework practice, with unlimited games and 134+ word lists at no cost. For all-subject coverage, IXL provides adaptive practice across math, ELA, science, and more.

Parents on a budget should start with Khan Academy Kids (free) and SpellingJoy (free) to cover the essentials before considering paid options.

ST

About the Author

SpellingJoy Team

The SpellingJoy team is dedicated to creating free, high-quality spelling resources for K-6 students and their families. We test every app we review and provide honest assessments to help parents make informed decisions.

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