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 for Pre-K to 5th gradePrice:$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
2
Prodigy
Most engaging
Prodigy uses game-based learning to teach math, with a newer English/ELA component.
Best for:RPG-style math practice that keeps kids motivatedPrice:$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
3
DreamBox
Best adaptive
DreamBox is an adaptive K–8 math program that provides rigorous and personalized instruction using interactive visuals and intelligent scaffolding. Widely used in schools and homes.
Best for:Personalized math instruction with visual interactivityPrice:$12.95/moGrades:K-8Platforms:Web, iOS
Pros
Personalized learning adapts in real time
Strong visual and conceptual explanations
Aligned with Common Core and state standards
Cons
Premium pricing
Can be overwhelming for some younger students
4
IXL
Most comprehensive
IXL is a comprehensive adaptive learning platform covering all subjects from Pre-K through 12th grade.
Best for:Standards-aligned practice across all subjectsPrice:$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
5
Khan Academy Kids
Best free
Khan Academy Kids offers free, comprehensive early learning content covering reading, math, and more for children ages 2-8.
Best for:Completely free early learning with no adsPrice: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
6
Zearn
Best curriculum
Zearn is a standards-aligned digital math platform offering comprehensive instruction, practice, and remediation. Free for families, premium for schools.
Best for:Full math curriculum used in thousands of U.S. schoolsPrice:Free (core)Grades:K-8Platforms:Web
Pros
Full curriculum for grades K–8
Free access for individuals
Embedded instruction and practice
Cons
Requires stable internet
Interface can feel clinical
7
ABCmouse
Best all-in-one
ABCmouse offers a full early learning curriculum with thousands of activities for children ages 2-8.
Best for:Full early learning curriculum including math foundationsPrice:$45-59/yrGrades:Ages 2-8Platforms:All platforms
Pros
Comprehensive curriculum
Engaging content
Progress tracking
Cons
Requires subscription
Only to age 8
Frequently asked questions
What math skills should a 2nd grader be learning?
Second graders typically work on addition and subtraction within 100, place value, measurement, telling time, counting money, and beginning multiplication concepts. The best math apps for 2nd grade cover these Common Core-aligned skills through interactive practice.
Are free math apps good enough for 2nd graders?
Yes. Khan Academy Kids and Zearn both offer high-quality, curriculum-aligned math content completely free. Khan Academy Kids is best for ages 2-8, while Zearn provides full K-8 math lessons used in thousands of schools. Paid apps like SplashLearn and DreamBox offer more gamification and adaptive features.
How much screen time should a 2nd grader spend on math apps?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends consistent limits on screen time for children. For educational apps, 15-20 minutes per session is ideal for 2nd graders. Short, focused sessions are more effective than long stretches. Most apps on this list have built-in session timers or parental controls.
Which math app is best for a struggling 2nd grader?
DreamBox is the best choice for struggling 2nd graders because its adaptive technology adjusts in real time to meet each child where they are. It provides visual scaffolding and adjusts difficulty automatically. Zearn also offers strong remediation support with embedded instruction before practice.
Our Verdict
SplashLearn is our top pick for 2nd grade math thanks to its game-based approach, personalized learning paths, and strong curriculum alignment. Kids stay engaged while building real math skills.
For families on a budget, Khan Academy Kids and Zearn deliver excellent math instruction completely free. Zearn is especially strong for 2nd grade with its full curriculum aligned to Common Core standards.
If your child is struggling, DreamBox provides the best adaptive experience, adjusting in real time to meet learners exactly where they are.
Looking to strengthen spelling alongside math? SpellingJoy offers 100% free spelling practice for K-6 students with unlimited games, tests, and 134+ word lists - the perfect complement to any math app on this list.
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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.