Early childhood is a time of immense growth, curiosity, and energy. Parents often want to take an active role in their child's learning but may feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of resources available. With the right tools, however, parent-led education can become enriching and enjoyable for both kids and adults. Thankfully, numerous online platforms offer activities, ideas, and materials tailored to different age groups, learning styles, and interests. Here's a roundup of the best online resources for early learning that will help you keep your child actively learning while having fun.

1. ABCmouse

ABCmouse is a comprehensive online learning program for children aged 2–8. It covers a wide range of subjects like reading, math, science, and art through interactive games, lessons, puzzles, and animations. The platform offers a step-by-step learning path that progresses as your child masters skills, which is ideal for structured learning.

Unique Features:

  • Over 850 lessons across 10 levels.
  • Activities integrate rewards to keep kids motivated, such as earning tickets for virtual items.
  • Offline options like printable worksheets to reduce screen time.

Why Parents Love It: ABCmouse is a one-stop shop for early learning, with an easy-to-follow curriculum that’s fun for kids and stress-free for parents.

2. Khan Academy Kids

Khan Academy Kids is a free educational app that delivers high-quality content for children ages 2–8. It focuses on foundational skills in reading, math, writing, and social-emotional development. The app encourages exploration and critical thinking through creative games, stories, and activities.

Unique Features:

  • Completely free with no subscriptions or ads.
  • Customized learning paths based on your child’s abilities.
  • Includes whimsical, animated characters to guide the learning process.

Why Parents Love It: It’s an incredible resource for parents on a budget, offering rich content comparable to many paid platforms.

3. PBS Kids

PBS Kids is a treasure trove of educational videos, games, and activities based on beloved characters like Elmo, Arthur, and Curious George. Focused on early literacy, math, and social skills, the site is ideal for children aged 3–8. PBS Kids also provides parents with printable guides and resources to expand learning at home.

Unique Features:

  • High-quality educational games tied to well-known PBS shows.
  • Videos tackle important topics like kindness, problem-solving, and emotional learning.
  • Free access to materials, with no need for an account.

Why Parents Love It: PBS Kids blends entertainment with learning, making it perfect for children who are fans of these iconic shows.

4. Scholastic Learn at Home

Scholastic Learn at Home is an excellent resource for literacy-based activities for children of all ages, especially those in Pre-K through elementary school. It provides daily reading activities, paired with video lessons, discussion prompts, and crafts. Topics often span literacy, science, and current events, keeping content fresh and engaging.

Unique Features:

  • Activities are organized by grade, from Pre-K to Grade 6 and beyond.
  • Accessible and easy to fit into a daily routine for parents with busy schedules.
  • Free resources available outside of school subscriptions.

Why Parents Love It: The focus on reading and creative expression aligns perfectly with educational goals while sparking a genuine love for books.

5. Starfall

Starfall is a well-established platform dedicated to early literacy and math skills for kids Pre-K through Grade 3. Originally created to help children learn to read, the site now includes math games, phonics, and seasonal activities.

Unique Features:

  • Blends phonics-based lessons with engaging animations and interactive game play.
  • Offers a free version with basic content and a low-cost membership for expanded access.
  • Focuses on making early learning approachable and enjoyable for hesitant learners.

Why Parents Love It: Starfall excels at teaching younger children the basics of reading through simplicity and repetition.

6. Outschool

Outschool is a unique platform offering live, online classes for kids ages 3–18. The classes cover a wide range of subjects, including art, languages, science experiments, and even hobbies like cooking and drawing. Taught by expert instructors, parents can find tailored classes that fit their schedule and interests.

Unique Features:

  • Provides a social element, allowing kids to interact with peers in small groups.
  • Flexible options, from one-time workshops to on-going courses.
  • Classes are searchable by age, subject, and interest.

Why Parents Love It: Outschool connects children to live learning experiences that help them engage socially while still learning from home.

7. Prodigy

Prodigy is a fantasy-style math game designed for elementary and middle school students, but even kids as young as 6 can get started. While battling characters and completing quests, children solve math problems tailored to their grade and skill level.

Unique Features:

  • Adaptive learning adjusts difficulty based on your child’s answers.
  • Combines video game mechanics with educational content to boost engagement.
  • Free with optional premium membership for extra features.

Why Parents Love It: Prodigy brings math to life for kids who might otherwise find the subject intimidating or boring.

8. National Geographic Kids

For curious kids, National Geographic Kids offers an array of articles, games, videos, and DIY projects focused on animals, science, and history. The site helps children explore the world around them while encouraging creativity and critical thinking.

Unique Features:

  • Content ranges from animal profiles to interactive geography quizzes.
  • Free printable activities like coloring sheets and science experiments.
  • Sparks a love for nature and discovery in kids as young as 4.

Why Parents Love It: The vibrant visuals and fascinating topics make learning about the world engaging and tangible for young explorers.

9. Busy Toddler

Busy Toddler is a blog run by a mom and former teacher, offering practical early learning activities for kids from infancy to early elementary. Parents will find step-by-step guides for sensory play, DIY games, and creative projects—most of which use household items you already have.

Unique Features:

  • No screens required—activities are designed to be hands-on.
  • Breakdown of age-appropriate ideas so parents can quickly find activities.
  • Encourages independent play while fostering learning.

Why Parents Love It: Busy Toddler is perfect for parents who want to step away from screens while creating memorable learning moments for their kids.

10. Tinkergarten

Tinkergarten is an outdoor-based program that combines exploration and play to promote early learning. Their site provides parents with ideas for nature-based activities that foster problem-solving, creativity, and motor skills.

Unique Features:

  • Focuses on outdoor play, perfect for nurturing curiosity in young learners.
  • Online training and downloadable guides for parent-led activities.
  • Options for virtual classes with professional instructors.

Why Parents Love It: Tinkergarten offers a refreshing blend of nature and learning suited for kids who thrive outdoors.

Parent-led early learning can be an exciting adventure with the right online resources. Whether you want to focus on literacy, math, science, or arts, these resources cater to a range of ages and learning styles.