Best Free Math Apps for First Graders in 2025: Honest Review
We tested every major math app for first graders. Here's our honest assessment — what works, what's overhyped, and which ones kids actually want to use again.
How we evaluated these apps
We looked at: curriculum alignment (does it cover what first graders need?), engagement (do children want to continue?), pedagogy (does it build understanding or just drill facts?), feedback quality, and price transparency (no bait-and-switch).
Best free math apps for first graders 2025
🥇 Math Princess — Best overall free option
Platform: Browser (any device) · Price: Free (Pro $3.49 one-time)
Built specifically for ages 6–8. Shows addition, subtraction, counting and comparison with pictures. Leveled difficulty, stars, confetti rewards. No ads, no login, no subscription trap. The Pro upgrade is genuinely optional.
▶ Try free
🥈 Khan Academy Kids — Best comprehensive free app
Platform: iOS, Android · Price: Free
Covers all Grade K-2 math (and reading). Character-guided learning, no ads, no in-app purchases. Requires account creation — minor friction but worth it. Slightly less game-like than some alternatives, but educationally excellent.
🥉 Prodigy Math — Best for reluctant learners
Platform: iOS, Android, Browser · Price: Free (premium subscription available)
RPG game where math unlocks battle moves. Hugely engaging for kids who love adventure games. Grade 1 math content solid. Be aware: premium features are aggressively marketed to parents.
SplashLearn — Best adaptive learning
Platform: iOS, Android, Browser · Price: Free tier (limited)
Strong adaptive algorithm matches difficulty to skill level. Beautiful design. Free tier is limited to a few activities — useful for sampling but not sustained daily practice without subscription.
Starfall — Best for young Grade 1
Platform: Browser, iOS, Android · Price: Free (premium available)
Simple, non-threatening math games for the youngest first graders. Great for children who find other apps overwhelming. Strong counting and early addition content.
Apps to skip
We tested several apps that looked impressive in the App Store but delivered poorly: confusing navigation that required adult help, aggressive ads that interrupted learning, or content that didn't actually match first grade standards. We're not naming them — just know that the free top-rated lists include some mediocre options.
🥇 Try our top pick — completely free!
No download, no login, no subscription. Open math-princess.com on any device and start playing in 10 seconds.
▶ Open free now