Online learning resources by age
Children learn differently as they grow, so it’s important to find tools and tips that suit their age and needs. Here’s a handy guide to free and low-cost resources, along with practical advice to help make online learning a success for your family.
What’s on the page
Early Years (4 – 7)
At this age, learning should feel like play—fun, engaging, and easy to dip in and out of.
Great tools to try:
- BBC Tiny Happy People (Free): Fun videos and activities to build language and communication skills.
- CBeebies Games (Free): A treasure trove of games covering shapes, letters, and basic maths.
- Teach Your Monster to Read (Free on PC, Small Fee for App): A colourful phonics game that helps kids learn to read while having a blast.
Top Tips:
- Keep it short and sweet: Little ones don’t have huge attention spans, so keep sessions to 15-20 minutes with plenty of breaks.
- Get involved: Sit with them while they learn—it’s more fun for both of you and helps them stay focused.
- Mix it up: Balance screen time with hands-on learning like drawing, counting objects, or reading together.
Young children (8 – 11)
Children in this age group are ready for more independent learning and skill-building activities.
Tools to Try:
- BBC Bitesize (Free): Offers interactive lessons, videos, and quizzes across all primary school subjects.
- Scratch (Free): A coding platform where kids can create games, animations, and stories.
- Oak National Academy (Free): Provides a complete curriculum with video lessons and downloadable resources.
Tips for Parents:
- Encourage exploration: Let your child explore topics outside of school, like coding or creative writing.
- Use progress tracking: Look for platforms that provide feedback, helping your child see their growth.
- Balance activities: Pair online lessons with hands-on activities like building projects or storytelling.
Older children and teens (12-16s)
Teenagers often require tools that help them prepare for exams, improve their research skills, and manage their time effectively.
Tools to Try:
- Seneca Learning (Free): Offers revision materials and quizzes tailored to the UK curriculum for GCSEs and beyond.
- BBC Bitesize (Free): Continues to be a valuable resource for secondary school subjects, including exam preparation.
- Khan Academy (Free): Covers a range of topics, from maths and science to art and computing.
Tips for Parents:
- Promote independence: Encourage teens to set their own study goals and take responsibility for their learning.
- Support research skills: Teach them to verify information using reliable sources.
- Discuss wellbeing: Ensure they balance screen time with exercise, hobbies, and relaxation.
Post-16 and beyond
Young adults preparing for further education or the workforce need tools to build advanced knowledge and career-focused skills.
Tools to Try:
- FutureLearn (Free, paid upgrades available): UK-based platform offering online courses in a variety of subjects, including business and technology.
- OpenLearn by Open University (Free): Offers free courses in everything from science to creative writing.
- LinkedIn Learning (Free with library card in the UK): Provides professional development courses on topics like project management and coding.
Tips for Parents:
- Encourage lifelong learning: Highlight the value of developing skills that align with their career or personal interests.
- Support work-life balance: Help teens juggle academic responsibilities with hobbies, part-time work, or volunteering.
- Introduce career platforms: Guide them in exploring tools like LinkedIn for networking and building their CV.
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