SpellingJoy

Best Spelling Apps for 1st Grade in 2026

Short vowels, blends, digraphs, and sight words for first grade students ages 6-7.

SpellingJoy TeamSpellingJoy Team
•Last Updated: January 15, 2026
First grade student learning

First grade is when formal spelling instruction begins. Kids learn short vowel patterns, consonant blends, and expand their sight word vocabulary.

Our Top Picks:

1

Vocabulary A-Z

Vocabulary A-Z (formerly VocabularySpellingCity) offers vocabulary and spelling games for K-5 students with classroom management features for teachers. $108/year covers up to 36 students.

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Best for - Comprehensive 1st grade spelling
Price - $108/yr (classroom)
Grades - K-5
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

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

Cons

  • ✗ Rebranded from VocabularySpellingCity
  • ✗ Requires annual subscription
  • ✗ Classroom-focused pricing
2

SpellingJoy

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.

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Best for - Free 1st grade word lists
Price - 100% Free
Grades - K-6
Platforms - 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
3

Reading Eggs

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

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Best for - Reading + spelling combined
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
4

Spelling Shed

Spelling Shed is a UK-based spelling app with gamification features including competitive leagues and rewards. Home subscription $4.99/mo or $29.99/yr for up to 5 students.

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Best for - Fun spelling games
Price - $29.99/yr (home)
Grades - Ages 5-11
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • ✓ Strong gamification features
  • ✓ Competitive leagues
  • ✓ Cross-platform

Cons

  • ✗ UK curriculum focus
  • ✗ British accent audio
  • ✗ Original app phased out for subscription model
5

IXL

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

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Best for - Personalized learning
Price - $79-159/yr
Grades - Pre-K-12
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

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

Cons

  • ✗ Expensive
  • ✗ Spelling is small part of ELA
6

Simplex Spelling

Simplex Spelling uses research-backed methods and is particularly effective for students with learning differences.

Best for - Phonics-based spelling
Price - $5-15/app
Grades - K-5
Platforms - iOS

Pros

  • ✓ Research-backed methodology
  • ✓ Great for special needs students
  • ✓ One-time purchase

Cons

  • ✗ iOS only
  • ✗ Multiple apps to purchase
  • ✗ No web version

Frequently Asked Questions

1st grade focuses on: short vowel words (CVC patterns), consonant blends (st, bl, tr), digraphs (sh, ch, th), and expanding sight word vocabulary.

Our Verdict

VocabularySpellingCity has comprehensive 1st grade content ($117-125/year).

SpellingJoy offers free 1st grade spelling practice with grade-level word lists.

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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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