ABCmouse Alternatives: Top 7 Choices in 2025
reviewed by Camille Ira B. Mendoza
Updated on October 8, 2025
There are hundreds of e-learning platforms for reading on the market, but which one is right for you? In this article, I’m going to help you make the choice and walk you through the best ABCmouse alternatives in 2025 as viewed from a tutor’s perspective — platforms that offer fun lessons, interactive tools, and adapted learning approaches.
Key Points
- ABCmouse is an online educational platform for early learning (ages 2–8), offering a broad range of subjects.
- Many parents look for ABC mouse alternatives for reasons like age range limits, learning style fit, concept depth, or a more hands-on experience.
- Brighterly is a one-on-one math and reading online educational platform offering gamified learning for students in grades 1–9.
- Hooked on Phonics and ABCya are the two apps with immense collections of educational games.
- Homer and Reading Eggs are designed for kids ages 2–13 and focus primarily on phonics and reading skills.
- Starfall and PBS Kids are two examples of an ABCmouse alternative providing effective lessons for the youngest learners.
Why do parents consider ABC Mouse competitors?
ABCmouse is one of the most popular early learning platforms for kids in pre-school and elementary school. It covers reading, math, science, art, and other educational activities like interactive games, songs, and quizzes.
Parents often choose it because the app offers a combination of entertainment and education. But after a while, they decide to switch to a better fit.
Before we move to why some families don’t stick to ABCmouse, let’s talk about how ABCmouse wins its users:
- It offers a broad range of subjects covering the essentials like reading, math, science + art, and interactive games.
- The service is quite affordable if you buy an annual subscription.
- It provides a structured, mastery-based curriculum adapted to young learners.
The downsides, though, make parents look for alternatives to ABCmouse.
For example, some families find that the exercises and the overall experience are too dull for children to engage. The content, although extensive, doesn’t offer much depth — kids outgrow it too quickly. The platform also primarily targets foundational learning, and it doesn’t meet the requirements of most parents.
Let’s look in more detail at the reasons why families switch to apps like ABCmouse and overreview ABC mouse alternative according to Reddit reviews.
What are the reasons to choose ABCMouse alternatives?
Reason to switch to other websites like ABCmouse: Monotonous content
Most negative reviews I found bout ABCmouse mention that the content is dull and uninspiring, which is a deal breaker with children under 8.
Parents highlight that the content provides very little value and real learning. When the lessons are as repetitive as those on ABCmouse, it becomes increasingly difficult for children to engage over time.
With the platform’s primary goal being to make learning fun and effective, these shortcomings lead parents to believe it is not worth it. Especially considering the price tag, which is higher than that of other programs similar to ABCmouse.
Reason to switch to other programs like ABC mouse: Only targets little children
ABCmouse is an e-learning platform for early education for children between 2–8 years old. While it may deliver for preschoolers and early elementary, kids often get bored pretty quickly.
Parents with multiple children of different ages also find ABCmouse a waste of money, since they may pay for another program to cater to the needs of older kids.
All in all, it looks like ABCmouse is an unreliable learning platform — even if your kid could potentially benefit from its approach, they outgrow it too quickly and can’t progress further.
Reason to switch to other programs like ABCmouse: Outdated interface and design
Parents often mention outdated UI — the ABCmouse website doesn’t seem refined, and it drives away many users. The navigation is not super intuitive, either, making it harder for kids to navigate independently.
That said, I’m going to save you plenty of time and list the top 7 websites similar to ABCmouse, both free and paid.
What are the best ABC Mouse competitors?
ABCMouse Alternative #1: Brighterly
Brighterly math and reading platform is a 1:1 online e-service for students in grades 1–9. It connects students with experienced tutors to help children boost their academic performance, close learning gaps, and improve skills relevant to real life. The Brighterly platform has scored an average review of 4.5 stars on Trustpilot — a rare occurrence for educational platforms.
Brighterly: Top features
Experienced math and reading tutors
The Brighterly tutors are certified educators in online private tutoring. The platform only collaborates with seasoned professionals, with each potential candidate going through a rigorous background check, ensuring a high level of expertise.
Brighterly elementary and middle school tutors use gamified learning principles that help foster problem-solving skills and deepen understanding of the given concepts without confusing kids too much.
Adapted, school-aligned curriculum
One of the Brighterly principles is adapting educational plans to each student’s needs, goals, and abilities. Brighterly is also 100% school-aligned and adheres to the state’s standards.
Note: School alignment refers to an educational plan designed to align with the State Standards used in U.S. schools.
Free learning resources
Brighterly provides learners with free interactive resources like math worksheets and reading worksheets for solo learning. To get them, you don’t need to enter your credit card or sign up; it’s completely free.
These worksheets are structured by topic and grade, so you can quickly navigate the selection and access the perfect resources anytime.
Need to diagnose your kid’s skills? Brighterly’s math tests and reading tests will help you evaluate your kid’s weak points and make personalized recommendations for improvements.
Brighterly: Price options
Brighterly’s pricing starts at $17.3 per lesson per student (subject to the purchase of the longest package with the maximum number of lessons).
Here’s a breakdown of Brighterly pricing packages (considering the purchase of 3+ weekly lessons):
- 12-month plan: starting at $17.30 per lesson
- 6-month plan: starting at $19.40 per lesson
- 3-month plan: starting at $20.20 per lesson
- 1-month plan: starting at $20.70 per lesson
Haven’t done your research and are not sure how it compares to other e-learning platforms? Here are some pointers for you:
- In the United States, the average tutoring rate is between $40 and $80 ($300 a month is what you’ll pay for a one session/week).
- With Brighterly, you access free benefits like free worksheets, progress tracking, a personalized learning plan, etc.
How does Brighterly compare to ABCmouse?
Brighterly reading and math program and ABCmouse both have the same goal, but they approach it quite differently. Brighterly provides 1:1 private lessons based on each student’s learning needs. This is where ABCmouse falls short, only offering gamified interactive exercises without real interaction with a tutor.
Brighterly |
ABCmouse |
|
Instruction method |
1:1 live sessions | Game-activity driven lessons |
Subjects covered |
Math and reading | Reading, math, science, art, social studies |
Age range |
Ages 6–14 | Ages 2–8 |
Personalization |
Highly personalized | Some adaptivity |
Pricing |
Starting at $17.30 per lesson | $14.99 per month |
Brighterly: Pros & cons
✅ Live private tutoring with expert teachers.
✅ Deep focus on math and reading — all the foundational skills.
✅ Free lesson to see if you’re a match.
❌ Not adapted for high schoolers.
❌ Brighterly is a paid service, unlike free alternatives to ABCmouse.
ABC Mouse Alternative #2: Hooked on Phonics
Hooked on Phonics is a phonics-based reading program that focuses on basic reading skills and helping children move from letter to sound to full reading. The platform combines digital lessons (apps available for Android and iOS devices) with workbooks and “practice packs”.
Best for: early foundational reading skills.
While ABCmouse offers a variety of subjects, Hooked on Phonics only focuses on foundational reading. For more info, check out this article — ABC mouse vs Hooked on Phonics.
Who is Hooked on Phonics for?
Early readers (ages 3–8), kids who need help with phonics, and parents looking for some digital reinforcement.
Hooked on Phonics’ top features
- Phonics-focused curriculum — lessons focus on letter sounds, decoding, phonics, etc.
- Practice workbooks + apps — students receive practice workbooks by mail that align with the app content.
- Rewards + gamification — children can earn rewards to unlock new content.
How much is Hooked on Phonics?
Hooked on Phonics is one of the paid websites like ABC mouse, and the price depends on the duration of the plan and the features you choose:
- A monthly subscription for $12.99/month
- The 6-month plan is $49.99
- Annual plan is $79.99
So, how does it compare to ABCmouse? With a Hooked on Phonics subscription, you’re getting a full-on phonics experience, while ABCmouse provides you with more subjects.
Hooked on Phonics pros and cons
Hooked on Phonics’ pros |
Hooked on Phonics’ cons |
| ✅Support materials | ❌ Repetitive content |
| ✅Proven phonics methods | ❌Cancellation issues |
| ❌App-only plan is not very effective |
In general, Hooked on Phonics offers a balanced approach for students looking for a phonics-based curriculum.
ABCMouse Alternative #3: ABCya
ABCya is one of the game-based learning apps for kids in pre-K through 6th grade, providing educational games in math, ELA, logic, science, art, and more. Just like other sites like ABCmouse, it relies heavily on practice through games.
Best for: Children who want to reinforce skills through a gaming experience.
According to the reviews, ABCya emphasizes short games and skill practice with less structure than ABCmouse.
Who is ABCya for?
ABCya is ideal for parents looking for “laid-back” educational activities, rather than a structured curriculum. It’s good for extra practice, and some fun when keeping them engaged is a must.
ABCya top features
- Grade-based games — age-appropriate games on topics like letters, numbers, etc.
- Free access + premium upgrade.
How much is ABCya?
If you’re looking for programs like ABCmouse but free, ABCya is a good choice. But if you’re considering a paid version with extended features, the prices are:
- $9.99/month or $79.00/year for families;
- $49.00/month with a 6-month package or $299.99/year for classrooms.
If you’re comparing plans, ABCya is more expensive, but it offers a free version, too.
ABCya pros and cons
ABCya pros |
ABCya cons |
| ✅ Wide age span | ❌ Free version is very limited |
| ✅ Game-based learning | ❌ No progress tracking |
| ❌ Games are too simple |
ABC Mouse Alternative #4: HOMER
Homer is another alternative to ABCmouse that is designed for kids ages 2–8. It focuses primarily on phonics and reading skills, as well as creativity, thinking skills, and social-emotional learning.
Best for: early stages of reading, reading-first journey.
HOMER is more specialized in reading and phonics, while ABCmouse provides a broader scope of subjects.
Who is HOMER for?
Children aged 2–8 who want to improve skills from both offline and online resources.
HOMER top features
- Master-based learning — progressive skills development.
- Hands-on resources and printables.
How much is HOMER?
If you’re looking for ABCmouse free alternative, HOMER has a free 3–day trial. The plans are as follows:
- The monthly plan is for $9.99
- The annual plan is for $59.99
- Bundle option is $99.99 (annual subscription + physical explore kits).
HOMER is slightly cheaper than ABCmouse, but it only offers reading through mastery-based progression.
HOMER pros and cons
HOMER pros |
HOMER cons |
| ✅ Good for early reading | ❌ Fewer subjects |
| ❌ Certain levels are either too easy or too hard |
ABCMouse Alternative #5: Reading Eggs
Reading Eggs is a literacy-focused program for ages 2–13, offering sub-programs to cover phonics, reading comprehension, etc. It combines fun, interactive lessons, digital books, etc.
Best for: developing reading fluency.
Like other sites like ABCmouse, Reading Eggs focuses on literacy development with a focus on phonics, reading, and comprehension.
Who is Reading Eggs for?
Reading support for preschoolers and early/middle schoolers with adaptability and progress reports.
Reading Eggs’ top features
- Multiple reading sub-programs — progression from basic phonics through comprehension.
- Large digital library — leveled books for many ages.
How much is Reading Eggs?
If you’re looking for something similar to ABCmouse but free, Reading Eggs also offers a free trial, usually 30 days. The plans are as follows:
- The monthly plan (reading only) is for $9.99; the reading and math bundle is for $13.99.
- The annual plan (reading only) is for $69.99; the reading and math bundle is for $99.99.
- Homeschool Max is for $41.90/month or $299/year.
Reading Eggs, in many cases, is slightly more expensive than ABCmouse. However, it focuses more on reading and provides specialized.
Reading Eggs pros and cons
Reading Eggs pros |
Reading Eggs cons |
| ✅ Strong reading program with reading progress | ❌ The content can feel repetitive |
| ❌ Parents may need to supplement workbooks |
ABC Mouse Alternative #6: Starfall
Starfall is one of the free websites like ABCmouse run by a nonprofit for Pre-K to grade 5. It blends multisensory phonics, interactive games, songs, books, and math activities.
Best for: Beginner readers needing help with phonics and foundational reading.
When you’re considering Starfall vs ABC mouse, it’s good to note that Starfall is much more focused on phonics, early reading, and foundational literacy.
Who is Satrfall for?
Students needing to reinforce reading skills; educators in early years classrooms.
Starfall’s top features
- Phonics-based reading – ideal for foundations in reading.
- The platform offers interactive games, songs, and books.
How much is Starfall?
Many basic resources are free, and then there’s a paid membership. The plans are as follows:
- Annual home membership is $35/year.
- App subscription is $5.99/month.
- Teacher: $70/year.
- Classroom: $195/year.
- School: $355/year.
When you just need a phonics/reading program, Starfall is more affordable thanks to its free features.
Starfall pros and cons
Starfall pros |
Starfall cons |
| ✅ Many free resources | ❌ Content for older readers is limited |
| ❌ Design is outdated |
ABCMouse Alternative #7: PBS KIDS
PBS Kids is an ABCmouse alternative, free, providing games, videos, and self-paced learning for children aged 2–8.
Best for: Parents looking for a free, media-rich educational platform.
ABCmouse is different from PBS Kids — first, PBS Kids is a free service, and secondly, it offers a more loosely structured collection of educational materials.
Who is PBS KIDS for?
Ideal customers are:
- Families or schools looking for free educational content.
- Children aged 2–8 years old.
PBS KIDS’ top features
- Free access, with no “premium” paid tier.
- Adapted for supplementary learning, with no rigid structure.
How much is PBS KIDS?
PBS Kids is completely free.
PBS KIDS pros and cons
PBS KIDS pros |
PBS KIDS cons |
| ✅ PBS Kids is free. | ❌ Less structured curriculum. |
| ✅ Parents and educators supporting tools are available. | ❌ Some subjects are less covered. |
ABCmouse alternatives: Reddit & Trustpilot reviews from parents
Generally, ABCmouse gets moderate feedback — parents tend to appreciate its affordability and range of subjects.
However, they often point out that the content is repetitive and not stimulating enough.
“For her, ABCmouse just didn’t hold her interest at all.” – Jakie, Welltrainedmind
“It’s more netertainment than education.” – Canadianwhiltemagic, Reddit
“My kid got really bored very quickly.” – Blahblahnownow, Reddit
All in all, parents do complain about the platform’s lack of engagement for kids and repetitive activities that don’t really teach.
What’s next? Finding the best programs like ABC Mouse
ABCmouse is a popular e-learning program for early education; however, it falls short in providing a real impact, as parents often mention how boring it is for children.
When looking for alternatives, most families hope to find:
- Comprehensive math and reading learning programs
- 1:1 lessons at an affordable price
- Transparent prices
- And the US state standards alignment.
If this is what you’re looking for as well, you’re in luck! Book free lesson with Brighterly today and see how exciting learning can be!
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