Website Spotlight: K5 Learning

Disclosure: I received complimentary products to facilitate this post. All opinions are my own.

K5 Learning is an online reading and math program for kids from kindergarten through grade 5. Their intent is to help kids build reading, math and study skills through independent study. K5 is designed for use at home, after-school, on weekends and during the summer, and can also be used in conjunction with a homeschooling program.

I had a chance to have a 6-week trial of the website. I had mixed results with my kids. My younger one actually loved it. It fit her level well, and she got a kick out of getting things right or wrong. My older one didn't like it as much at first (she didn't want to leave her favorite other learning site) but after a little bit of encouragement she did fine too. The spelling and vocabulary tutor aren't really anything fancy, and she doesn't like those as well, but the math and reading lessons were much better for both of my girls.

The site focuses on reading, spelling, and math - the basics essential to educational success. The lesson plans have friendly animations and explanation, although weaker readers may need an adult to help. As a teacher, I know that anything that can help get your kids to reinforce or learn the basics will help them in the long run. In my high school classroom, I see too many students who never really had a solid understanding of math facts, and the problem just snowballs until they can't pass classes anymore.

If you want to check it out, you can get a free 14-day trial, which includes a reading and math assessment to give your child appropriate activities for their mastery level (which is really important if they're ahead or behind grade level).