It is easy to regard the abacus as an ancient tool that belongs in the trade markets of China, but it can be a great way to imprint strong fundamentals on the blank minds of children. 

But you might be wondering where to start. In this post, we have curated a  list of the best online abacus training for you!

Abacus training classes to look online 

1. Abacus Math From Scratch – UDEMY

With a course rating of 4.4, this can be an ideal course to begin your abacus journey. If you’re a beginner with no prior experience of using the calculating tool – sign up without hesitation! From teaching you simple and mixed addition and subtraction to performing quick mental math, this is the most beginner-friendly course. This course provides 78 lectures and 7 hours of content, 43 downloadable resources, and Full lifetime access. The course can be accessed on mobile and TV, and a Certificate of completion is also provided. 

You will receive comprehensive lessons on how to perform basic mathematical operations using the abacus, place numbers on the abacus, understand multiplication and division, know all the complementary numbers for 10 and so much more through this program. It is recommended that you work using an abacus for this program. This course tries to make it as fun as possible to understand the different aspects of the abacus and absorb them. 

2. Online Abacus Learning Portal – ABACUS MASTER

ABACUS MASTER targets beginners and advanced learners. A beginner who wants to master the tool – ABACUS MASTER provides a platform that covers all topics from basics to advanced abacus calculation techniques.  The main focus of this course is on the Anzan practice of an abacus, where users mentally visualize an Abacus to do calculations with incredible speed and accuracy without a physical Abacus. 

This course is structured into eight levels, making it easier for everyone to learn and assess. Keeping the need for practice in mind, it continuously provides worksheets and periodic tests. Expert assistance is provided through Skype on a regular basis and a feature of customizing your worksheets as per your learning progress. Lastly, a certificate of completion to add to your merits

3. Abacus Mental Math

The targeted audience for the course is 5 to 13-year-olds. There are grades in abacus learning with 10 being the grade for novices and 1 for abacus experts who can work with the tool with enhanced expertise. Going from grade 10 to grade 1 takes at least 3.6 years if you practice/learn at least one abacus lesson per week. However, the main highlight of the course is its Soroban training and Anzan method which would enable a child to learn visualizing math with just 3 months of abacus training, ditching the conventional methods of abacus learning that take ‘too’ long.

If that’s not enough, it also comes with a reward system that allows students to receive badges, rankings, coins, and diamonds, making practice more fun and exciting for the student. Every account comes equipped with a personal goal-setter. It develops consistency in students and teaches them to stick to their plans while rewarding their efforts along the way.

4. ABACUS masterclass – UDEMY

This is a beginner-level course for strong fundamentals. This course is perfect for you if you are a parent or a guardian of kids above six years of age and wish to teach abacus to your children, or you’re a teacher willing to master a new skill. This course would enable you to identify and understand the importance of all the parts of the Abacus. Learn to count up to eight to nine-digit numbers. You will explore the fundamentals such as how you can hold the Abacus right. 

The best feature of the course is speed writing – for both left and right-handed students. This course is designed considering everybody who is willing to learn. The course is divided into easy-to-digest chunks for the comfort of learning. You can begin to use the abacus for simple mathematical operations and start practicing them.

5. Smart Kid Abacus

With their motto as ‘Building generations in a smarter way,’ the course begins for children as young as 4 years old! The course is divided into eight levels – 5 basic levels and 3 advanced levels. Special courses for teacher training are also provided. Starting the first level with numbers 1 to 50, it goes up to the grand level with highly advanced techniques. Holistic brain development is the focus of this program. There is the understanding that brain plasticity and the potential to retain is much higher when children are younger. That is why the program has been designed for children of a very young age.

This course enables better visualization, concentration, memory retention and recall, and greater listening skills. Systematically divided and subdivided into levels, this course offers short 45-minute lessons for easy accommodation into the daily schedule. Children will be taught how to use the left and right sides of the brain simultaneously to absorb abstract concepts and improve their retention, concentration, and analytical skills while being creative. 

6. Online Abacus Classes by JAMS

The course is set to establish a strong foundation. Students can enroll in the course at any skill set – from beginner to advanced. With customized lessons targeted for different skill sets, an online abacus class by JAMS is a perfect tool for learning and polishing the skills. With just 3 to 6 students in one class and the classes divided into sessions of 30 minutes to 1 hour for beginner to advanced levels – it gives a perfect opportunity to learn systematically.

Children are constantly assigned homework to keep their brains active. Even though the learning might appear to be classroom-based, the idea is to help young minds think differently in every situation and apply the learnings into practice to improve academic capability as well as life skills. From improving confidence to time management abilities, this is yet another Abacus program that is focused on holistic growth.

7. Abacus Online Tutorial

It provides a paid and a free version for different needs. Perfect for all age groups – it teaches using the Japanese abacus technique called ‘soroban.’

The main focus of this course is on understanding the basics of soroban and performing calculations on it efficiently. Using animations and games as a method to engage the children, this course is best for people who love to learn through pleasure. It mixes creativity with competitiveness.

The idea behind this program is to reshape the way that children think and boost their confidence and self-esteem through tried and tested methods. Children who are weak with numbers to begin with find it very easy to cope and understand the different concepts of mathematics much better through this program. Learning does not have to be a tedious experience for young children anymore.

Our ranking criteria

While the detailed list above would help find the right class for you, let us set some accountability to ease your confusion further! How did we come up with this list, and what were the criteria and parameters that helped us decide? After the basic shortlisting, the courses were selected and ranked on the following specifications: 

• The ratings of the course
• The reviews of the users and the experiences shared
• The structure of the course and whether the progress from basic to advanced is systematic
• The ratings and experience of the instructor
• The fee structure to establish feasibility
• The prerequisites for starting the course were kept to a minimum

How will the online abacus training classes benefit you?

It goes without saying that by enrolling in one of these online abacus training classes, you can start towards becoming thorough at abacus. The unsaid perk is that each of these courses is carefully compiled so that they do not come off as boring, thus making abacus learning a fun and interactive experience. 

By enrolling in any of these courses, you can expect to benefit in the following ways:

• Ability to use an abacus tool (based on the course you are enrolling into)
• Improve hand and brain coordination
• Enhance arithmetic skills and the ability to perform basic calculations
• Boost cognitive abilities such as increased focus and concentration, memory retention, etc.
• Enhance logical and decision-making skills.
• Boost confidence and reduce the disinterest in math; these courses may also help you overcome math phobia.

Final words

Abacus is a great way to begin the mathematics journey. Not only does it improve the child’s mathematical skills but it also contributes towards personality development by boosting self-confidence and busting stress and anxiety. More than a tool, it is an opportunity to excel in math, while also developing the ability to perform basic calculations in a span of seconds.

We hope this compilation of the online training courses will help you make more informed decisions quickly. It is said that ‘the brighter you are, the more you have to learn,’ so here’s to taking that first step toward a more fulfilling life!

Simran Aggarwal

The post 7 Online Abacus Training Classes For Little Math Aspirants appeared first on Number Dyslexia.

Even if compromised neurologically, learners can now keep up with their learning persuasively. To ensure this, you may have to choose those specific learning programs that follow the Orton-Gillingham approach.

In this post, we will mull what the Orton-Gillingham program is, how to choose the best program, and finally, our best picks for your young learner. 

Orton Gillingham program- What actually it do?

If you are looking for an approach that is probably tailor-made for a child with a learning disability, Orton Gillingham Programs can be your best pick. This approach is direct, clear, and multi-sensory, and is accompanied by a sequential style of teaching, reading, writing, and spelling to pupils who have personal challenges in learning. The program guides these children to align with the pace of traditional learning.

Samuel Orton and Anna Gillingham initiated the Orton-Gillingham approach. Samuel Orton was an American neuropsychiatrist and a pathologist who focused on reading failure and other language learning difficulties. To resolve this, he brought neuroscientific information and principles of remediation together.

He encouraged Anna Gillingham, an educator, to compile and publish appropriate educational materials. The first version of this Orton-Gillingham material was seen in the early 1930s and soon became popular as the Orton-Gillingham approach. In our previous posts, we have also talked about how effective this approach can be. 

Choosing the best-suited program

Several programs are available today that follow the Orton-Gillingham approach. But you might be in a bewildering situation where you cannot decide which one would be the best for them! You can choose an appropriate program when you exactly know what the young learners need. When an appropriate style is chosen, their comprehension of concepts will be better, and thus they will enjoy it more. 

There are a number of learning styles that you can opt for. For tactile learners, programs with activities would work. While for visual learners, teaching with colorful images would come in handy. 

Broadly, you can avail two types of Orton-Gillingham programs:

Direct teaching Programs 

Some students need undeviating supervision from teachers for better grasping of notions. Direct teaching programs ensure the same, where instructors use straightforward techniques to enlighten their skills. This method is evidently traditional but is impactful most of the time.

Software-based Programs

Also known as Computer-based learning (CBL), it is an approach to instruction where aids are provided by the computer. This method ensures a number of interactive elements using software to improve the interactivity levels. 

Orton Gillingham program- Top direct teaching programs

The direct teaching approach ensures the pupils are taught and guided by teachers directly. This warrants minimal communication gaps and effective learning. Most of these programs are inexpensive and are quite easily formatted for ease of communication. 

Here are some top programs:

1. Barton Reading and Spelling

This is a premium-priced yet effective program that parents often like. May it be clear instructions or great reading techniques, most of its attributes make it direct and effective. Thus, it stands as one of the most potent programs for children who have challenges in learning and grasping. This program makes non-professionals teach efficiently which is the factor that makes it distinctive. It is most effective for pupils who toil in spelling, writing, reading, and other language-related concepts.  

Each level of this approach ensures quality through Tutor Training on DVD/Online videos, tutor manuals, colour-coded letter tiles, manipulatives, and customer support too. The DVDs consist of approximately five to six hours of instructions. The pupil can halt and practice skills for ten to fifteen minutes. The tutor manual consists of everything you may need to instruct. The wide column in it contains full scripting, while the narrow columns contain just summary information. 

2. All About Reading

All About Reading (AAR) is a cost-effective program that briefs what to do and what not to do. Being a complete program in phonics, decoding, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension, it has four levels along with a pre-reading program. The scripted lessons are fun and engaging due to their easy formats. Being a research-based multisensory program, it is timidly scripted; thus, it can give fruitful results in just a 20-minute session a day. This makes it a fitting choice for over-ornate parents and tutors too.

It consists of two parts: the Pre-reading program and the Reading Program. The Pre Reading Program consists of a teacher’s manual, a student packet, two read-aloud books, the letter sounds A to Z app, and a few other essential manipulatives. This account is a great starter. The Reading Program consists of four levels: 1 to 4. The five components of this program include phonological awareness, phonics/decoding, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.

3. Lindamood-Bell

Being in the market for more than 3 decades, this evidence-based program develops the skills necessary for reading and comprehension, especially for students needing support. The program starts with identifying strengths and weaknesses, based on which instruction is decided.

The learning disability evaluation ensures this and it results in a real-time difference in performance. Offers by the institute are another distinguished aspect; parents can avail themselves of good discounts occasionally; this school also welcomes international students.

4. Wilson Reading

A tried and proven program from Wilson Reading (WR) ensures quality with its experience of more than 3 decades. Used by many private schools, this program is not heavily scripted. It focuses on the education of teachers, ensuring it with certifications. It collaborates with districts and universities for school implementation, science and literacy development, graduation programs, and graduate credits. The research-based discipline incorporated with COMPASS (COMprehensive Plans for Achieving Success and Sustainability)and literacy specialists guides the discharge of programs with assured constancy. 

WR starts with very basic skills like letters and their sounds and then gradually dives into needed skills. Thus, it is age-appropriate; students of every age get materials designed for them. For instance, if the eighth-grader wants to learn fourth grade, the materials are designed for their level with advanced vocabulary and exemplars. This can be your pick if you are looking for a popular and proven scheme that possesses brand value.

5. ABeCeDarian Reading Program

The next option for parents and teachers who are looking for a direct teaching program for their child is the ABeCeDarian reading program. It is a comprehensive decoding program that uses a multisensory approach to help students gain the ability and confidence to read fluently.

Children in kindergarten through grade 2 receive explicit phonics instruction, so they develop a stronghold in phonemic awareness and decoding. For older students in grades 3-6, the program offers word study materials, which must be combined with appropriate reading materials so they can keep making progress in reading.

Some time ago, the program rolled out levels A, B1, and B2 in a digital format. This makes learning more convenient, as learners can now access the reading material anytime, anywhere, enhancing their overall experience.

Orton Gillingham Program- Top Software-based Programs

A software-based program along with a direct-teaching program can lead to ameliorated results. Software-based programs have a lot of value additions like convenience and flexibility. Additionally, this approach circumvents the need for repetitive teaching. Evidently, it is rare to find a patient-practitioner as well.  

Here are some of our picks:

1. Lexia Reading

With five levels of learning, Lexia reading is a thorough course that begins with basic sounds and continues teaching through concepts like roots, syllabication, suffixes, and prefixes. The program meets the Common Core standards and now has timed drills; thus, it becomes a great pick for daily training. 

This computer-based reading program provides phonics instructions ensuring independent student practice in basic reading skills. Being designed to supplement regular classroom instructions, it amplifies skill development in five different areas of reading instruction identified by the National Reading Panel.

This program usually consists of two to five 30 minute-sessions each. The Internet-based reports from developers allow instructors to access and monitor the progress of the pupils at all levels. Unfortunately, the limited time span constrains educators from repeated lectures. 

2. Fast ForWord Program

Fast ForWord is a unique software-based program developed by neuroscientists. It helps in building a learning foundation, followed by training for reading fluency and comprehension. To begin with, learners complete 5 to 7 exercises of early programs to strengthen their foundational skills and then move on to programs that focus on reading and comprehension.

While most reading programs are either conducted at a dedicated center or offer software to be used at home, this program has the best of both worlds by offering the convenience of learning to read at home and the guidance of professionals who coach and mentor parents and their kids to derive the best possible outcomes from this program. They even conduct virtual sessions if need be.

The Fast ForWord program is perfect for learners of all ages and those with different learning difficulties. Just 30 minutes a day, 3 to 5 days a week, brings significant progress in children and adults when the program is used consistently for 4–6 months.

3. HearBuilder

HearBuilder focuses on building a strong foundation of literacy and reading by improving listening and memory retrieval skills. The research-based online interactive programs offer a set of multi-level activities with reports for parents and educators to track the progress. It offers multiple plans ensuring tailor-made training. These include:

• Home (for one student and one parent)
• Home + ( doe one parent and 2-4 students)
• Educator (for one instructor and up to 20 students)
• Educator + (for one instructor with up to 40 students)
• Administrator (for multiple educators with over 40 students)

Summing up

The Orton-Gillingham approach is focused on individual learning needs. Concentrating on the early needs of pupils would boost them in sorting, recognising, and organizing the lessons helping them to ponder and apply what they learned. As much as these programs help children with learning disabilities, they can also be a boon for others who wish to learn with ease. 

Being validated for more than 80 years, this approach has created enough evidence of being effective. Having a professional instructor can make it a tool with extraordinary depth and flexibility. Mull into the above picks to check if any of them fits your young learner. 

Manpreet Singh

An engineer, Maths expert, Online Tutor and animal rights activist. In more than 5+ years of my online teaching experience, I closely worked with many students struggling with dyscalculia and dyslexia. With the years passing, I learned that not much effort being put into the awareness of this learning disorder. Students with dyscalculia often misunderstood for having  just a simple math fear. This is still an underresearched and understudied subject. I am also the founder of Smartynote -‘The notepad app for dyslexia’, 

The post 7 Best Orton Gillingham Based Reading Programs appeared first on Number Dyslexia.

We have discussed lots of options like manipulatives for counting, addition, subtraction, division, geometry and etc. in our previous posts. In this post, we go a bit technology-savvy and bring you online counterparts of math manipulatives that you can use in the shape of web apps on your devices.

Why online math manipulatives

Almost everything ranging from groceries to books, and jewelry to CD-ROMs are available online. Teaching materials like math games, calculators, and anchor charts have also occupied the online space. Keeping up with this technological boom in the education sector, developers have come up with the idea of online math manipulatives. Thanks to technological breakthroughs; now you can find Cuisenaire rods, linking cubes, etc. available in the form of online web applications. The best benefits of online math manipulatives are:

• Online manipulatives or virtual manipulatives^[2] are similar in effect to concrete manipulatives in teaching students with learning disabilities.
• Allow kids to independently study^[3] and practice math concepts.
• Ubiquitous tool to study in hand; thus, students can continue more practice at home, or even while traveling (Bouck et al, 2012)

All these studies are pointing to the effectiveness of virtual manipulatives in helping students manage their studies despite the presence of MLDs. But, finding the best from the lot is not easy as all online math manipulatives designers claim them to be exceptional. Hence, to ease your searching woes, we have enlisted here the 10 best online math manipulatives that help students master the basic skills needed for tackling higher-level math topics.

Top 10 math manipulatives available online

1. Base 10 Blocks

Online Base 10 blocks are an awesome learning tool that captivates the mind and drives critical thinking. This math manipulative is suitable for practicing basic math concepts like number sense and early math operations like adding and subtracting, dividing, and multiplying.

Further, the students can employ it for polishing their skills like making fractions, or finding place value. The icing on the cake comes in the form of ubiquitous access. So, whenever you are traveling and want a constructive engagement for the kids, you can hand them over these online base 10 blocks and make the best of that time. Continuous and more practice becomes easy, too, with these manipulatives.

App Link: Web App

2. Unifix Cubes

Almost all children have seen and used concrete Unifix cubes that are easily available in toy shops. But, these are not merely toys. Their high engagement quotient makes these online manipulatives ideal for children who tend to avoid learning math.

The best use of Unifix cubes lies in intelligent intervention of concepts like addition and subtraction, greater than, smaller than, and equal to, etc. There is a pencil and eraser also provided to help kids associate the mathematical operations with their visual presentation. Thus, the learners can benefit by picking the operations and learn those in a more ingrained manner.

App Link: Web App

3. 10-row Rekenrek

Rekenrek 10-row is one of the simplified types of Abacuses, but with multifold benefits. It is easier to understand and implement for teaching children basic math concepts. The color-coded beads can help in identifying the value of any number while differentiating smaller from bigger ones.

Other concepts easy to learn from Rekenrek’s 10-row manipulative are addition and subtraction, finding missing addends, and how to arrive at a number using different bonds. This online teaching tool allows more practice, leading to better learning. When you want your tech-savvy math learners to use screen time in learning, you can provide them with this virtual math manipulative.

App Link: Web App

4. Bear Counters

Bear counters available online offer engaging learning support to preschoolers and primary-level math students. This math manipulative available online helps math beginners become familiar with the idea of data management and graphing.

You can use color-coded bears to sort, arrange and add up, or do several activities focused on learning math operations. Save the child the pain of stacking concrete bears or stumbling upon them by offering them this cleaner alternative and double up the joy of learning as well.

App Link: Web App

5. Coins

Money manipulatives do ease the learning of budget and dealing in cash. But, concrete bills tend to get soiled or torn, and the coins do need close supervision due to hazards attached to them. Thus, this online coin manipulative offers unlimited hours of learning minus the difficulties posed by concrete counterparts.

You can employ these to teach children how to identify coins of different currencies and find their corresponding values. So, learn to arrange, add, and calculate exchange with ease by employing online coin manipulatives as your learning support.

App Link: Web App

6. Polypad – Tangram

What about having a virtual pad that allows you to acquaint yourself with all geometrical figures? Learning disabilities can be of various types and poor motor skills also pose hindrances sometimes. Polypad-Tangram offers an effective learning tool that allows you to boost your spatial reasoning skills.

Using this tangram, you can learn how to match or identify different geometrical figures. Easy drag-and-drop support allows you to create patterns of your own, helping you have added comfort with concepts like shape and orientation, etc.

App Link: Web App

7. Fraction Strips for Kids

Fractions may confuse young math learners; but, they may learn better with visual assistance provided by online manipulatives. This fraction strips manipulative is an easy learning tool that allows young kids to learn a lot about how to compare fractions, find equivalents, and internalize terms like numerators and denominators.

In addition to the online activity premise, there is a video lesson provided. Thus, the kids are never devoid of any learning resource and absorb all ideas correctly, needed for learning and applying fractional values correctly.

App Link: Web App

8. Virtual Geoboard

We have explained geoboard activities in one of our posts. This is an online manifestation of that geoboard. By using band-like connecting material, a person forms a variety of structures on the concrete geoboard.

You can take the help of cues available in various diagram books, and create diagrams using this online geoboard. It augments commendably your learning of shapes. Caleb Gattengo’s invention which was focused on primary math learners continues to charm students with its appeal and promise of delivery.

App Link: Web App

9. Virtual Dice

Dice is perhaps the oldest manipulative. Its simplicity and effectiveness in teaching math concepts, like counting, subitizing, etc. are quite pronounced. This manipulative is now available online too where a simulated environment is provided to the student. The learners can choose from digits or dots as per their preference in the online dice.

Teachers and parents can disseminate the idea of matching numbers and may build number sense by showing them dots corresponding with the number. This manipulative simulates the act of rolling dice which can be further implemented for teaching various math operations, greater than and less than concepts, and a lot more. A simple act of clicking on ‘Roll’ takes away all the hassle and kids enjoy changing images every time they click on ‘Roll’.

App Link: Web App

10. Number line manipulative

What does dodging numbers by 1s, 2s, 3s, or so on look like? If you want to answer any such kids’ questions, you can employ this number-line manipulative and give them the much-needed clarity. This online number line manipulative is best suited for learning numbers and their relative positions.

You can also introduce the concept of greater than and smaller than, and show kids what changes the act of adding and subtracting bring in the numbers’ values. Fun-filled learning is the best outcome of this virtual manipulative and can make kids more receptive to the idea of learning math concepts.

App Link: Web App

Summing up,

Enjoy the marvels of technological innovations in education through online math manipulatives. These manipulatives can allow you to have a break from various hassles that you might encounter with concrete dice, spinners, counting bears, etc. The only thing you need to take care of is screen time. So, design the teaching schedule so that the kids are not over-exposed to gadgets; it may help you have the best benefits at your disposal.

References

1. Furman, C. E. (2017). Making Sense with Manipulatives: Developing Mathematical Experiences for Early Childhood Teachers. Education and Culture, 33(2), 67–86. https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1621&context=eandc
2. Bassette, Laura & Bouck, Emily & Shurr, Jordan & Park, Jiyoon & Cremeans, Mckenzie & Rork, Emma & Miller, Kelsey & Geiser, Sarah. (2019). A Comparison of Manipulative Use on Mathematics Efficiency in Elementary Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal of Special Education Technology. 35. 10.1177/0162643419854504.
3. Liggett, R. S. (2017). The Impact of Use of Manipulatives on the Math Scores of Grade 2 Students. Brock Education Journal, 26(2), 87–101. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1160704.pdf

Manpreet Singh

An engineer, Maths expert, Online Tutor and animal rights activist. In more than 5+ years of my online teaching experience, I closely worked with many students struggling with dyscalculia and dyslexia. With the years passing, I learned that not much effort being put into the awareness of this learning disorder. Students with dyscalculia often misunderstood for having  just a simple math fear. This is still an underresearched and understudied subject. I am also the founder of Smartynote -‘The notepad app for dyslexia’, 

The post 10 Must-Try Free Online Math Manipulatives appeared first on Number Dyslexia.

It also lays the foundation for easy geometry learning. Let’s explore how patterns intelligence can be achieved with online patterns games, and which are the best ones available.

Importance of online patterns games

Pattern learning is a part of math reasoning building. It completes the mathematical competence of a child. Various tests are developed to find the ability of children’s brains to find patterns or visualize shapes; accordingly, the teachers follow the code of guidance. Some students need more practice than others, and this is where additional resources like online pattern games can provide learning support.

Online patterns games help in the following ways:

• Games for patterns initiate learning through discussions
• These enhance the logical reasoning abilities^[2] of the child
• Pattern games help visualize shapes and their relevance in the surrounding environment
• Online patterns games help utilize technology to give more practice to children who tend to avoid books
• The games improve qualities like perception, critical analysis, memory boosting, and others.

To add to all, the games based on pattern learning can help utilize a child’s internet time for mathematical skill enhancement purposes. Listed here are the most engaging online pattern games that can help you entice your child into mathematical skill development without feeling bored.

Top 8 Engaging Online Patterns Games

1. AuroraBound – Pattern Puzzles

An exciting and mentally soothing game for one and all! This pattern puzzle is designed to offer learning-based recreation material for kids as well as adults. The homeschoolers can employ logic, utilize matching skills, and improve their hand-eye coordination by practicing puzzles on this game regularly.

By playing this in a time-pressed manner, the kids can enhance their memorization capabilities and be fluent with patterns. While 1000s of unique puzzles offer ample practice and can keep you busy year-round, increasing complexities can help the players tease their minds as per their capability. This online pattern game introduces shapes and designs in an absorbing manner and is sound learning support.

Game Link: Playstore | Appstore

2. Lucas’ Logical Patterns Game

Lucas presents to you a world of pattern games where players are expected to complete logical patterns in a fun and engaging way. The game is suitable for players 2 – 8 years old, and the difficulty level and format are different for kids under and over five years of age. Lucas’ voice guides players during the game as they try to complete the patterns with fun, colorful objects such as geometric shapes, colors, and numbers. 

To make things a little challenging for kids over 5, there are subtle differences in elements that they must identify and complete patterns accordingly. What’s more! As kids try their hands at pattern sequencing, they even get to enjoy some really melodious classical music. Isn’t it great? All in all, this free online game is a must-try for little kids to enhance their pattern identification and sequencing abilities.

Game Link: Playstore | App Store

3. Kids’ Mosaic Art Shape and Color Picture Puzzles

This pattern game offers an activity-oriented way of learning shapes, designs, and patterns. The players get to fiddle with a variety of pattern-creation ideas with the help of shapely blocks of various sizes and colors.

This pattern game has a plethora of designs and shapes to make. These design inspirations are nothing but the animals, means of transport, buildings, and several other things that children come across in their surroundings. Hence, apart from providing support for mosaic learning, it tells about the relevance of knowing shapes.

Game Link: Playstore

4. Geoboard: Puzzle for kids drawing lines shapes

Geoboard coming to your mobile or tablet screen is a wonderful idea! Shape learning activity becomes more joyful when done in a progressive manner. This online pattern game offers a good start for the learning process.

Children can start with lines, then move to letters, and further, explore the design patterns that are nothing but extending lines in various directions. Thus, this game offers the advantage of learning letters. One can assess the progress by comparing the ‘before’ and ‘after’ results.

Game Link: Playstore

5. Patterned

Patterned is quite similar to what you do with a jigsaw puzzle board game. The players get the set of pieces of a picture that they need to fit on the screen.

By the simple act of drag and drop, the early learners of shape learn about the composition of a picture, its elements, and how the shapes can be put together to create an entirely different pattern or design. This game improves cognition and offers a better understanding of the pattern-making process while working up the brain.

Game Link: AppStore

6. Patterns

A pattern is not only about sorting and fitting the pieces of a puzzle and making structure. A sequence is also a type of linear pattern, where the objects appear in some order. As a pattern learner, a child has to apply logical reasoning skills too.

This skill becomes easy to develop with the game that offers understanding or identification of a pattern and then choosing the next in the series. The children can be given hints first in this game, then with progression in learning, they can start to pick the objects and make a pattern without any help. This online pattern game can be played using a time-based challenge to acquire fluency.

Game Link: AppStore

7. Pattern Memory Game

Pattern memory game is an ideal platform to acquire skills for sequence, and shape intelligence. The shapes and patterns become easy to grasp when the brain is trained to recognize, memorize and decode the order.

This game is designed to challenge the mind and improve the mental capacity of the players by offering them challenges with varying complexities. The game is designed for both kids and adults and helps improve the memory of players with regular practice and constant effort to move high up the proficiency levels.

Game Link: Playstore | AppStore

8. Learning Patterns – Pattern & Logic Game for Kids 

Learning patterns start at an early age; therefore, this online pattern game is designed, to keep the needs of budding learners in mind. They can play this game to learn the pattern of numbers, letters, and various shapes.

The overall result is a confident child with better logical reasoning skills. Various exercises and activities involving shape identification and sorting boost the child’s learning and offer them added ease with the shapes and the sequencing skills. Whether it is number sequencing or the arrangement of letters, the easy games provide the best edutainment material for the kids, allowing them to grasp patterns and concepts remarkably.

Game Link: Appstore

Activities you can do with online patterns games

Online pattern games can be introduced as study material with the help of discussion and guidance. Homeschoolers as well as other learners can do the following activities with these games:

• Build designs with the help of blocks
• Take pattern decoding challenges
• Perform sequence completion activities
• Draw and design shapes and patterns
• Memorize shapes and the underlying patterns of a design

In Conclusion

The benefits of using online pattern games are too good to be ignored. These fun and interactive games improve a child’s attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and memory retention without making learning a boring experience. A few rounds of games, once or twice a week, are sufficient to help kids derive maximum benefit while also building confidence in their mathematical abilities. 

So, don’t miss out on incorporating these great resources at school to bring variety to the ways of learning. Or, if you are a parent who wants to turn screen time into a learning opportunity, the online pattern games mentioned above along with some interactive pattern activities will make a great choice to help your child learn and grow.

References

1. Arum, Diantika & Kusmayadi, Tri Atmojo & Pramudya, Irfan. (2018). Students’ logical-mathematical intelligence profile. Journal of Physics: Conference Series. 1008. 012071. 10.1088/1742-6596/1008/1/012071.
2. Nfon, N. F. (2018). The Use of Mathematical Games and Secondary School Students’ Achievement in Mathematics in Fako Division, South West Region of Cameroon. Journal of Education & Entrepreneurship.

Manpreet Singh

An engineer, Maths expert, Online Tutor and animal rights activist. In more than 5+ years of my online teaching experience, I closely worked with many students struggling with dyscalculia and dyslexia. With the years passing, I learned that not much effort being put into the awareness of this learning disorder. Students with dyscalculia often misunderstood for having  just a simple math fear. This is still an underresearched and understudied subject. I am also the founder of Smartynote -‘The notepad app for dyslexia’, 

The post Top 8 Engaging Online Pattern Games for Little Learners appeared first on Number Dyslexia.

The stage of moving to word building from letter recognition is a trickier one. This is where the phonics step in and ease the learning process. Online phonics reading programs can allow homeschoolers to have wholesome reading learning support right at their fingertips. Preschoolers or kindergarteners also benefit a lot from these because of the numerous learning methods and tools provided in the reading programs.

Why learning phonics is important?

Phonics allows the learners to understand how words can be broken down into sounds or phonemes and vice versa. This means phonics allows learning the initial, middle, and end sounds of the word. It can help build correct spellings or read their correct pronunciations.

The importance of learning phonics becomes quite evident from the growing popularity of phonics books, manipulatives, and online reading programs developed by educators. Of these resources, what purposes do the online reading programs actually fulfill, let’s find out.

Purpose of an online phonics reading program

When you see a child struggling with spelling and pronunciation, you search for resources that can supplement classroom coaching or boost the learning of homeschooling. The online phonics reading program comes as an additional resource and helps provide an interactive platform for children to build and practice word structuring, pronunciation, and spelling. The best outcomes^[1] you can expect to gain by joining these reading programs are:

• Reinforcement of word’s sound-spelling relationship concepts
• Building and boosting spelling skills
• Increase in comfort with independent reading
• Better fluency in reading

In essence, beginners can learn to read and apply the acquired reading skill in learning and strengthen the base of literary skills. If all these reasons have made you sit up and notice the importance of online phonics reading programs, use this newfound interest to learn more about them so you can pick the most appropriate reading program for your child or students. Some of the most promising ones are curated for you here.

7 promising online phonics reading programs

1. Reading Eggs Phonics Program

Reading Eggs identifies phonics for early learners as Synthetic Phonics and Analytics Phonics. Their reading program is based on synthetic phonics, where the words are actually broken down into the composing sounds to understand the spelling-sound relationship. This program takes a relaxed and detailed approach and dedicates each session to a letter of the alphabet. Its principle, relationship with other letters, and its role in spelling formation are explained using examples to improve the basics of a reading beginner.

This online phonics reading programs features comprise:

• CVC concept of spelling
• vowel sounds
• diphthongs
• start and end sound blends
• concept of the silent letter and double letter sound
• word facts and families
• ways to attach multi-syllable words

Once these concepts are reinforced, reading exercises are provided to students to check their literacy level and assess their growth in fluency. Applying these skills improves cognition regarding the way words operate.

Official Link

2. Headsprout

Headsprout is the smartest reading program available online for reading fluency beginners. The program has online episodes on letter sound and spelling concepts aimed at phonics learners. This program is providing multiple benefits to the students of the K-5 level and gives them an interactive learning tool to know and practice letter identification, pronunciation, and word spelling skills. With a complete set of teaching, assessing, and interacting tools, the program offers a unique way of learning phonics skills. Its main features are:

• It assesses the learning needs of the child first and then offers help accordingly
• Offers lots of tests to keep track of learning
• Teaches basic skills of phonemic awareness, spelling formation, and reading fluency
• Motivates children to put more effort by rewarding them in a variety of ways

Headsprout can be a promising tool for building literacy skills and contextual learning of vocabulary. The program is designed to move the students from early reading skills to advanced ones.

Official Link

3. Free Reading Program

Free Reading Program is a literacy initiative aimed to develop reading and spelling skills in students of the Kindergarten level. The program comprises all tools needed to build and reinforce the basic reading concepts. Aimed at enhancing vocabulary skills along with phonics intelligence, this online reading program has features like:

• Lessons on basic concepts, auditory skills, picture vocabulary, and visual skills
• Introduction to Sight words list – its complexity increases with an increase in the level of learning
• Introduction to color and number names and other words of daily use
• Stories and book reading sessions

By way of offering activities, this online reading program introduces the practical aspects of word building and shows how to apply this skill to learn about things from daily life.

Official Link

4. Progressive Phonics

Here is an all-in-one phonics reading program that comprises all the elements necessary to teach reading to little children. From teaching the alphabet to advanced phonics, the program has it all. It also introduces children to essential sight words and provides ample reading opportunities through its wide selection of books.

In addition, teachers and parents get access to handwriting worksheets that are in tune with the phonics books available through this program. Features specific to this reading program are:

• Contrasting fonts to aid reading
• Supports guided oral reading
• Promotes better retention through repetition and a hint of humor
• Read the books online or print them if you want

All in all, Progressive Phonics is a super fun and easy reading program with eye-catching illustrations to grab the attention of little minds. It covers all the basics required to become a fluent reader. And what’s the best part? You don’t need prior experience in phonics to get started, which makes it a great choice for homeschooling. Plus, it is totally free!

Official Link

5. Fly with Phonics

Fly with Phonics online reading program aims at boosting the fundamentals of learning reading skills. Children get to learn and apply the basics of reading such as word sounds, pronunciation, spelling, vocabulary, and comprehension leading to better confidence in reading fluency. You can find with this program resources like:

• Collection of words, sounds, images
• Practice sessions for reading
• Play tools to achieve reading fluency
• Sound cards for linking words with sounds

Official Link

6. Read Naturally

Read Naturally online reading program offers a full range of resources like online reading sessions, CD Roms, etc. You learn to read when you practice reading, without losing enthusiasm. This reading program facilitates more practice by providing resources like books, sound cards, and word lists.

Learners listen to the stories first, then try to read them aloud. In this reading program, they get access to resources that can help:

• learn to decode words by listening
• understand pronunciation
• grasp prosody
• do practice independently

This online reading support is designed to transform struggling readers into confident readers and attain fluency in thoughts and comprehension.

Official Link

7. Read Well

Read Well is the online reading program best suited for phonics beginners. The program adopts a targeted but flexible way of inculcating reading skills in kindergarteners and up.

This reading program available online is useful for classroom interventions and remote teaching as well. The main program features include:

• Activities suitable for the classroom environment
• Independent reading sessions for remote learners
• Interactive online sessions with teachers who disseminate concepts through stories, word banks, letter cards’ introductions, etc.

The program features multiple entry points for students to help them pick the sessions relevant to their level of learning. Flexible pace offers an individualized learning environment enabling students not to force to adjust; instead, get the learning that turns out more meaningful.

Officially Link: Read Well

How to choose online reading programs for kindergarteners?

Choosing the correct online reading program is very important for achieving learning objectives. here are some of the crucial steps to take to reach the reading program online that can enhance phonics skills suitably:

a. Identify the needs first: Find the weak areas, assess reading skills first, and try to answer questions that give a clearer picture of learning needs.

b. Look for the resources provided: Doing a little shopping for online phonics reading programs can go a long way and help you stay on the path of learning. Find out about the programs that offer teacher assistance, have solely independent learning tools, are suitable for the group, etc. Then, choose the one that suits your learning requirements and pace.

c. Try to join dummy sessions: The dummy sessions allow you to get a clear idea of what to expect in the online phonics reading session. you can also go through introduction videos or explainer videos, if available.

d. Read reviews: What the past users have to say about the reading program can tell a great deal about the expected outcomes. You can also collect statistics like the number of downloads made, the number of enrolments done, and so on, to find out about the popularity and relevance of the program.

Wrapping Up,

Online phonics reading programs are now a popular resource to imbibe early reading skills in children. What makes them even more special is that they can be accessed at any time and from any place. All you need is a device and an internet connection to get started. Kids especially enjoy online programs because they are fun, interesting, and interactive.

However, one must note that these programs are better off as supplemental resources and should not replace learning to read through direct teacher instruction and the use of traditional reading materials such as books, flashcards, etc. With regular exposure to phonics reading programs available online, children can successfully develop foundational reading skills that will eventually turn them into confident readers in the future.

Reference

1. Waldo, Kelly, “Teaching young children how to read: phonics vs. whole language” (2006). Capstone Projects and Master’s Theses. 359. https://digitalcommons.csumb.edu/caps_thes/359

Manpreet Singh

An engineer, Maths expert, Online Tutor and animal rights activist. In more than 5+ years of my online teaching experience, I closely worked with many students struggling with dyscalculia and dyslexia. With the years passing, I learned that not much effort being put into the awareness of this learning disorder. Students with dyscalculia often misunderstood for having  just a simple math fear. This is still an underresearched and understudied subject. I am also the founder of Smartynote -‘The notepad app for dyslexia’, 

The post 7 Phonics Reading Programs to try online appeared first on Number Dyslexia.