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Best Prodigy Alternatives for Spelling in 2025

Gamified spelling apps with the same engaging style as Prodigy.

SpellingJoy TeamSpellingJoy Team
•Last Updated: January 15, 2025
Kids playing educational games

Our Top Picks:

1

Spelling Shed

Spelling Shed is a UK-based spelling app with gamification features including competitive leagues and rewards.

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Best for - Leagues and competitions
Price - $38/yr
Grades - Ages 5-11
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • ✓ Strong gamification features
  • ✓ Competitive leagues
  • ✓ Affordable pricing

Cons

  • ✗ UK curriculum focus
  • ✗ Less suitable for US standards
2

Teach Your Monster to Read

Teach Your Monster to Read uses a game-based approach to teach systematic phonics for early readers.

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Best for - Story-based phonics game
Price - Free (web)
Grades - Ages 3-6
Platforms - Web free, Apps $8.99

Pros

  • ✓ Free on web
  • ✓ Systematic phonics approach
  • ✓ Engaging game format

Cons

  • ✗ Limited age range
  • ✗ Apps cost money
3

SpellingJoy

SpellingJoy is a free spelling practice platform for K-6 students. It offers word lists aligned with US curriculum standards, including Dolch and Fry sight words.

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Best for - Free spelling with star system
Price - Free
Grades - K-6
Platforms - Web

Pros

  • ✓ Completely free - no hidden costs
  • ✓ K-6 curriculum coverage
  • ✓ 134+ pre-made spelling lists

Cons

  • ✗ Web-only (no native mobile apps)
  • ✗ Classroom features coming soon
4

VocabularySpellingCity

VocabularySpellingCity offers vocabulary and spelling games for K-5 students with classroom management features for teachers.

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Best for - 35+ spelling activities
Price - $117-125/yr
Grades - K-5
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • ✓ 35+ learning games
  • ✓ Strong classroom integration
  • ✓ Teacher dashboard

Cons

  • ✗ Price increased significantly (was $35/yr)
  • ✗ Requires annual subscription
5

Reading Eggs

Reading Eggs provides a comprehensive reading program for children ages 2-13 with lessons, games, and books.

Read Reading Eggs Review
Best for - Engaging reward mechanics
Price - $70-100/yr
Grades - Ages 2-13
Platforms - All platforms

Pros

  • ✓ Wide age range
  • ✓ Comprehensive program
  • ✓ Includes spelling component

Cons

  • ✗ Expensive
  • ✗ Can be overwhelming

Frequently Asked Questions

Prodigy is primarily math-focused. For spelling specifically, dedicated spelling apps like Spelling Shed or SpellingJoy are better choices.

Our Verdict

Spelling Shed offers the most Prodigy-like gamification.

SpellingJoy is free with a star reward system.

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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.

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