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Best Typing Apps for 2nd Grade (2026)

Help your 2nd grader build keyboard confidence with the best typing apps for young learners.

STSpellingJoy Team
•Last Updated: March 30, 2026
Child practicing typing on a keyboard at school

Our top picks

Our pick
1

SpellingJoy

Best free

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 spelling & typing practice with QWERTY keyboard modePrice: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

ABCya

Best game variety

ABCya offers educational games for Pre-K through 6th grade across all subjects. Free with ads, or pay for ad-free premium access.

Best for:Fun typing games mixed with other subjectsPrice:$70/yr (ad-free)Grades:Pre-K-6Platforms:Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • Large game library
  • Free tier with ads
  • Covers all subjects

Cons

  • Free version has ads
  • Games vary in educational value
  • Not a structured curriculum
3

IXL

Best adaptive

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

Best for:Adaptive ELA practice including keyboarding skillsPrice:$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
4

Education.com

Best worksheets

Education.com offers thousands of worksheets, printables, and learning activities for Pre-K through 8th grade.

Best for:Typing worksheets and printable keyboard activitiesPrice:$120/yrGrades:Pre-K-8Platforms:Web

Pros

  • Huge worksheet library
  • Printable resources
  • Good for homeschool

Cons

  • Web only
  • Expensive
5

Prodigy

Best gamified

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

Best for:Game-based learning that encourages keyboard inputPrice:$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
6

Starfall

Best for beginners

Starfall teaches reading through systematic phonics with engaging activities for Pre-K through 5th grade.

Best for:Gentle introduction to typing for early learnersPrice:$35/yrGrades:Pre-K-5Platforms:Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Good for early readers
  • Systematic phonics approach

Cons

  • Limited for older students
  • Dated interface

Frequently asked questions

What age should kids start learning to type?

2nd grade (ages 7-8) is an ideal time to introduce typing. Children have developed enough fine motor skills to use a keyboard, and early practice builds habits that help with schoolwork as they progress through elementary school.

How many words per minute should a 2nd grader type?

A typical 2nd grader can type 5-15 words per minute. Focus on correct finger placement and accuracy rather than speed. By the end of 2nd grade, many students can comfortably type 10-20 WPM with proper technique.

Are free typing apps as good as paid ones for 2nd graders?

Yes, several free typing apps offer excellent practice for 2nd graders. SpellingJoy provides unlimited free QWERTY keyboard practice combined with spelling, while ABCya and Starfall offer free tiers with typing games. Paid apps like IXL add adaptive learning and detailed progress tracking.

Should 2nd graders use a full keyboard or a kid-sized one?

A standard keyboard works fine for most 2nd graders, though some parents prefer smaller keyboards for younger children. The key is proper posture: feet flat on the floor, wrists level with the keyboard, and eyes on the screen rather than the keys.

Our Verdict

SpellingJoy is the best free typing app for 2nd graders, combining QWERTY keyboard practice with spelling to build two skills at once.

For game variety, ABCya keeps kids entertained with typing games across multiple subjects. If you want adaptive, curriculum-aligned practice, IXL adjusts difficulty as your child improves.

Start your child's typing journey today with SpellingJoy - 100% free with no subscriptions or hidden costs.

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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