From game-based practice to adaptive instruction, find the perfect math app for your child with our expert reviews and comparisons.
SpellingJoy Team
•Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Math apps have revolutionized how kids learn and practice math. From engaging games that make practice feel like play to adaptive programs that personalize instruction, today's math apps can build confidence and skills effectively.
Whether you want free options like Prodigy and Khan Academy Kids, rigorous adaptive programs like DreamBox, or curriculum-aligned platforms like Zearn, our reviews cover everything: pricing, age ranges, teaching approach, and real effectiveness.
Best for - Engaging RPG-style math practice for grades 1-8
Price - $59-180/yr
Grades - Grades 1-8
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android
Pros
✓ Engaging game format
✓ Free basic version
✓ Curriculum aligned
Cons
✗ In-game purchase prompts
✗ Premium expensive
✗ Primarily math-focused
2
DreamBox
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 - Completely free early math for ages 2-8
Price - Free
Grades - Ages 2-8
Platforms - iOS, Android, Amazon
Pros
✓ Completely free
✓ Comprehensive curriculum
✓ No ads
Cons
✗ Only goes to age 8
✗ Not specialized for spelling
✗ No web version
4
Zearn
Zearn is a standards-aligned digital math platform offering comprehensive instruction, practice, and remediation. Free for families, premium for schools.
Prodigy is the most popular with its engaging RPG-style gameplay that makes math practice fun. It's free to play (premium features cost $59-180/year). For adaptive instruction, DreamBox is highly regarded. Khan Academy Kids is the best completely free option for ages 2-8.
Our Verdict
For engaging game-based practice: Prodigy wins—it's free to play with 50,000+ math questions wrapped in an RPG adventure kids love.
For adaptive instruction: DreamBox offers the deepest personalized learning with visual explanations, though at $12.95/month it's an investment.
For free options: Khan Academy Kids (ages 2-8) and Zearn (K-8) are both excellent and completely free.
For homework help: Photomath solves problems via camera with step-by-step explanations—great for algebra through calculus.
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.