Enriching Education - Smile Zemi

I'm a homeschooling parent, as well as a licensed math teacher and a tutor. In all of those roles, I've always looked for ways to support student education that is rigorous and also engaging and interesting. I recently had a chance to try out Smile Zemi, a tablet-based learning system designed for elementary students (grades 1-5). Smile Zemi is focused on math and English Language Arts topics and aligned with Common Core State Standards. (Even if you aren't in a CCSS state, like I am, it's still easy to find and adapt the topics that your state uses.)

Last year they also launched a kindergarten program that supports alphabet/ELA and math topics, as well as other subjects - social skills, science, critical thinking, and the arts.

One way that Smile Zemi really stands apart is the ecosystem itself. It's housed in a dedicated tablet that eliminates other possible distractions. If kids are using the tablet, the only thing they can be doing is the Smile Zemi program. The exercises provide clear and easy practice, and the built-in rewards (avatars, wallpapers, and more) provide a level of fun and engagement. Everything loads quickly, so there's no wasted time or time for kids to get bored waiting for the next task. There are multiple ways to look for topics - either with the daily suggestions or by picking out other topics - and it's all very easy for kids to navigate.

As an added bonus, Smile Zemi also has Achievement Test preparation with learning that is targeted to what students need. With lessons, practice, and review, it can be a great tool for enrichment for advanced students or supplemental practice for students who struggle.

Smile Zemi

Smile Zemi is the first tablet-based educational learning system tailored to meet the needs of elementary school children grades one through five and specifically designed to improve academic performance aligned with Common Core State Standards.  Developed by JustSystems, one of Japan’s largest manufacturers of educational software, Smile Zemi features a professionally developed curriculum and materials, including instructional videos, exercises, and quizzes to help students most effectively study Math and English Language Arts (ELA) on their own and in support of Common Core State Standards.