25 Top Reading Websites for Kids to Boost Learning

Learning is no longer limited to a pile of textbooks or the walls of a classroom. With so many reading websites available, children have access to an abundance of information. These platforms are designed to make learning both fun and engaging, which is crucial for young, curious minds.

When it comes to finding the perfect reading websites for kids, parents often find themselves overwhelmed by the choices. But don’t worry! we have put together a list of the top websites that are packed with learning tools to keep your little ones entertained while helping them build those all-important reading skills.

Why Reading Is Important for Kids?

Reading is one of the most crucial abilities for a child’s development. It helps kids focus better, improve their vocabulary, and become more creative. Reading fosters curiosity and a lifetime love of learning.

Benefits of Online Reading Platforms

Online reading platforms have made it easier than ever to access books, articles, and other content anytime and anywhere. They offer helpful tools and features to improve the reading experience and suit different preferences. Here are a few of the main benefits.

1. Interactive Learning

Many online platforms use animations, sounds, and games to engage kids, making reading an active experience rather than a passive one.

2. Wide Variety of Content

These platforms provide access to a huge selection of books, from classic tales to new releases, allowing kids to explore different genres and topics.

3. Read Anytime, Anywhere

Online reading platforms let kids enjoy their favourite books from any device, whether they’re at home, on the go, or even during travel.

Best Reading Websites for Children

There are countless online resources designed to spark kids’ interest in reading. If you’re looking for children’s websites for reading, the following platforms are some of the best options to boost learning and creativity. Here’s a list of free reading websites for kids that make reading fun, educational, and interactive.

1. Epic!

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 6

Overview:

With more than 40,000 books, CDs, and instructional videos, Epic! is a well-known digital library. The website offers a vast selection of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, STEM books, and more, and is intended for children ages 12 and under.

Why It Is Great:

Epic! offers personalised recommendations based on the child’s interests, and its vast selection makes it suitable for all reading levels. The platform also has read-to-me features for younger kids who are still learning to read.

2. ABCmouse

For Grade: Preschool to Grade 2

Overview:

ABCmouse is an award-winning educational website with a vast library of books, puzzles, songs, and interactive learning games. It emphasises literacy and early reading abilities and is intended for younger kids. The website helps kids learn the foundational reading abilities of phonics, word identification, and comprehension using a curriculum-based approach.

Why It Is Great:

ABCmouse makes learning a full sensory experience with colourful graphics, animations and sounds that engage children. It’s also one of the more affordable platforms, making it accessible to families looking for cost-effective learning tools.

3. Starfall

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 3

Overview:

Starfall is a free online platform that helps kids learn to read using phonics. It is designed for young students and emphasises fundamental abilities, including sound recognition, letter recognition, and simple word recognition. The site is among the best free reading websites for children since it provides a variety of animated reading exercises, games, and songs.

Why It Is Great:

Starfall is well-suited for children just beginning their reading journey. The interactive exercises on the website are easy to use and keep students interested.

4. Reading Eggs

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 5

Overview:

Reading Eggs is an online reading program that helps children become better readers using engaging lessons and games. It provides a methodical way to teach reading, beginning with phonics and working up to more complex reading skills. The program is broken into different “maps” where children earn rewards as they complete tasks.

Why It Is Great:

Reading Eggs uses a combination of games, songs, and rewards to motivate kids to read. It’s ideal for parents looking for a structured reading program that keeps kids motivated and on track.

5. Raz-Kids

For Grade: Kindergarten to Grade 5

Overview:

Raz-Kids offers hundreds of interactive eBooks at different reading levels, helping kids improve their reading fluency and comprehension. Every book includes comprehension tests to assess understanding, which makes it a great resource for reading exercises at home or in the classroom.

Why It Is Great:

With Raz-Kids, children may record themselves reading, take tests, and even listen to books read aloud. For kids who want to gain confidence in their reading skills, it’s the best.

6. Storyline Online

For Grade: All Grades

Overview:

On Storyline Online, a number of well-known actors read aloud from children’s books with lively illustrations. The website is made to encourage children to love reading while giving them an enjoyable, engaging experience.

Why It Is Great:

Children enjoy hearing their favourite actors narrate stories, which gives normal reading a fun new twist. It’s one of the best websites for kids to read because it’s accessible and free.

7. Funbrain

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 8

Overview:

Funbrain offers a variety of free, interactive games, videos, and books for kids, covering a wide range of subjects, including reading. The platform provides fun, engaging stories that kids can read at their own pace, making it a great educational tool.

Why It Is Great:

Funbrain is a free platform, making it one of the best free reading websites for kids. Its blend of games and reading makes learning enjoyable for children.

8. International Children’s Digital Library (ICDL)

For Grade: All Grades

Overview:

A huge selection of children’s books from all over the world are available for free on ICDL. The website is a great resource for kids who are multilingual or learning a new language because it gives them access to books in several languages.

Why It Is Great:

ICDL’s library promotes global understanding through children’s literature. It’s an excellent tool for parents who wish to introduce their children to a variety of cultural tales.

9. Oxford Owl

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 6

Overview:

Children’s reading activities and a variety of free eBooks are available from Oxford Owl. Experts in education created the platform, which offers an organised reading program and advice for parents on how to encourage their child’s interest in reading.

Why It Is Great:

Oxford Owl is particularly useful for parents who want guidance on how to help their children read. The free eBook library is well-organised, and the site offers additional resources for both kids and parents.

10. PBS Kids

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 3

Overview:

Based on its educational TV series, PBS Kids is a well-known platform that provides a variety of reading games, movies, and activities. The site is designed for younger children, providing fun ways to develop early literacy skills through interactive play.

Why It Is Great:

One of the greatest websites for kids to read for free is PBS Kids. Reading is a fun activity for young students because of the well-known characters and captivating games.

11. TumbleBooks

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 6

Overview:

TumbleBooks provides talking, animated picture books that make stories come to life. The website offers videos, read-along, and eBooks to help children build their reading skills. It’s particularly useful for children who are still developing their literacy skills.

Why It Is Great:

The animations and read-along features help kids stay engaged, making reading less of a challenge and more of a fun activity. TumbleBooks is a great resource for both home and classroom use.

12. National Geographic Kids

For Grade: Grade 1 to Grade 8

Overview:

National Geographic Kids offers a variety of articles, games, and films that blend reading with science and nature. Children can develop their reading skills while enjoying their surroundings.

Why It Is Great:

The website’s blend of fascinating content about animals, nature, and the environment makes it a fun educational tool that sparks curiosity in young readers.

13. Scholastic Kids

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 8

Overview:

Scholastic Kids is a well-known website that provides books, reading exercises, and educational games. The website offers books and stories that are appropriate for various age groups and reading levels.

Why It Is Great:

Scholastic Kids is perfect for kids who enjoy reading and wish to experiment with a variety of genres. The site’s integration of games with reading content adds an extra layer of fun.

14. Book Adventure

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 8

Overview:

Book Adventure is a free reading motivation program that allows kids to earn rewards for reading books. The platform includes quizzes and challenges to track progress and encourage kids to keep reading.

Why It Is Great:

Book Adventure offers a fun incentive system that encourages children to read more. The reward-based approach makes it one of the most engaging children’s websites for reading.

15. Reading Bear

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 2

Overview:

Children can learn phonics through interactive presentations with Reading Bear. It covers all the essential reading basics, from letter sounds to word pronunciation, and includes short videos that demonstrate each concept in an engaging way.

Why It Is Great:

Reading Bear’s phonics-based approach is perfect for early readers. The interactive videos and quizzes help reinforce learning and best of all, they are entirely free, making them a great resource for parents and teachers alike.

16. ReadWriteThink

For Grade: Kindergarten to Grade 12

Overview:

ReadWriteThink offers a range of interactive reading activities and educational resources for kids of all ages. The site is designed by literacy experts and provides free access to lesson plans, student interactives, and engaging reading materials.

Why It Is Great:

ReadWriteThink is a valuable resource for both educators and parents, with its broad range of tools and materials for different grade levels. The site’s interactive elements help kids stay engaged while developing key literacy skills.

17. Khan Academy Kids

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 2

Overview:

Khan Academy Kids is a free, fun educational program that covers a variety of subjects, including reading. The app provides early learners individualised learning experiences with games, tales, and lessons.

Why It Is Great:

Khan Academy Kids is well-loved for its personalised approach, where kids can learn at their own pace. It is an excellent resource for kids who are just beginning to learn to read because of its graphics, entertaining tales, and interactive learning.

18. Bookflix

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 3

Overview:

Bookflix pairs fiction and non-fiction books to help kids develop both their reading and critical thinking skills. The platform offers animated storybooks, read-along, and engaging activities designed to improve literacy.

Why It Is Great:

Bookflix helps kids make the connection between fiction and reality by encouraging them to experience a variety of story genres. The website encourages a deeper grasp of a variety of topics and is visually appealing.

19. Time for Kids

For Grade: Grade 1 to Grade 6

Overview:

Time for Kids brings the world of current events to young readers with kid-friendly articles covering a wide range of topics, from science to politics. The site includes videos, articles, and activities designed to build reading comprehension and critical thinking.

Why It Is Great:

Time for Kids makes reading fun while keeping children informed about important world events. It’s a great way to introduce kids to journalism and non-fiction reading in an engaging, age-appropriate way.

20. Highlights Kids

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 5

Overview:

Highlights Kids has a selection of instructional films, games, and interactive stories. The platform is made to encourage children to explore reading through challenges and activities in an enjoyable and imaginative way.

Why It Is Great:

From brainteasers to stories, Highlights Kids’ entertaining and diverse content keeps kids occupied while they acquire basic literacy skills. Because of its playful tone, reading becomes less of a chore and more of an adventure.

21. Reading Rockets

For Grade: Kindergarten to Grade 6

Overview:

Reading Rockets is a website helping struggling readers develop their skills. It provides reading recommendations, professional guidance, and tactics to help parents and children become more literate.

Why It Is Great:

For parents of children who could be slipping behind in their reading, Reading Rockets is a great resource. The website offers practical advice and resources to make reading enjoyable and easy.

22. Scholastic Story Starters

For Grade: Grade 1 to Grade 6

Overview:

Scholastic Story Starters is an interactive tool that helps kids generate creative writing ideas. It encourages kids to write their own stories while reinforcing key reading and writing skills.

Why It Is Great:

For children who love to create and dream, this website is ideal. It is an engaging method to enhance writing and reading skills since it fosters creativity in addition to improving reading comprehension.

23. Hoopla

For Grade: All Grades

Overview:

Hoopla is a digital media service that allows kids to borrow eBooks, audiobooks, and comics for free with a library card. The platform offers a wide variety of reading material across different genres, suitable for all ages.

Why It Is Great:

Hoopla’s connection to local libraries makes it a fantastic resource for families looking for free reading websites for kids. The variety of content ensures there’s something for every type of reader.

24. Storynory

For Grade: All Grades

Overview:

Storynory provides free audio stories for children, including original stories and old fairy tales. By making stories accessible to young listeners, the website hopes to foster a love of reading in them through auditory learning.

Why It Is Great:

Storynory is great for kids who enjoy listening to stories. It helps develop listening skills and encourages children to use their imagination as they follow along with the stories.

25. Oxford Reading Tree

For Grade: Pre-K to Grade 6

Overview:

Oxford Reading Tree is a reading program used in many schools worldwide. Along with a variety of interesting stories and activities, it offers a structured reading system that is intended to assist kids in gradually improving their reading abilities.

Why It Is Great:

Oxford Reading Tree is perfect for kids who want a more systematic approach to learning how to read. Its proven method has been used in classrooms for years, and it continues to be one of the most trusted resources for developing literacy skills.

Tips for Choosing the Best Reading Website for Your Child

Selecting the right reading website for your child can feel overwhelming, given the many options out there. It’s important to choose a platform that suits their age, interests, and learning style. Here are some simple tips to help you find the best match.

1. Consider Your Child’s Age and Reading Level

Choose a platform that offers content appropriate for your child’s age and reading abilities. Websites like Epic! or Starfall are great for younger kids, while older children may prefer more advanced platforms like Raz-Kids or National Geographic Kids.

2. Look for Interactive Features

Children often enjoy learning when it’s engaging and fun. Opt for websites that include interactive features like games, quizzes, and animations to make reading more interesting.

3. Check for a Wide Variety of Books

Kids are more likely to stick with reading if they have access to books that interest them. Make sure the platform offers a broad range of genres and topics to keep your child excited about exploring new stories.

4. Balance Fun With Learning

The reading website should be both educational and entertaining. Look for platforms that let your child learn to read while having fun by combining organised lessons with enjoyable activities.

The Role of Parents in Encouraging Online Reading

While online platforms can make reading fun and accessible, it’s the guidance and support from parents that truly make a difference. Here are a few ways parents can help their kids embrace online reading.

1. Set Aside Reading Time

Establishing a daily reading routine helps kids develop consistency. Whether it’s 20 minutes before bed or during quiet afternoons, setting aside dedicated time for reading ensures kids make it a regular habit.

2. Be Involved in Their Reading Journey

Engage with your child’s reading by discussing the stories, asking questions, or even reading together. Your involvement shows them that reading is important and fun.

3. Encourage Exploration

Allow your child to explore different genres and topics. Allowing kids to select what interests them fosters independence and keeps them inspired to read more.

FAQs

1. Are online reading websites for kids safe?

Yes, most reputable online reading websites for kids are designed with safety in mind. Platforms like Epic! and PBS Kids ensure that their content is age-appropriate and secure. Always supervise your child’s usage and review the website’s safety policies to ensure a positive experience.

2. Do I need to pay for online reading websites?

Many online reading websites offer both free and paid versions. Free reading websites for kids, like Storyline Online or Funbrain, provide a great selection of books at no cost. Some platforms offer premium subscriptions with additional features, but there are plenty of free options to choose from.

Online reading websites for kids offer an excellent way to boost learning while keeping reading fun and engaging. With so many platforms available, parents can find the perfect match for their child’s age and interests. Giving kids the opportunity to select from various genres makes reading enjoyable for them as part of their daily routine. Ultimately, online reading can spark a lifelong love of books in children.

Also Read: 

Best Educational Websites For Kids
Best YouTube Channel for Kids 
Internet Safety Tips for Kids

Our Editorial Policy

Parenting is a huge responsibility, for you as a caregiver, but also for us as a parenting content platform. We understand that and take our responsibility of creating credible content seriously. FirstCry Parenting articles are written and published only after extensive research using factually sound references to deliver quality content that is accurate, validated by experts, and completely reliable. To understand how we go about creating content that is credible, read our editorial policy here.