Big IQ Kids is an online learning program for grades K-5 that aids the child in developing and mastering learning skills in four areas: math, spelling, vocabulary and US Geography. For the past several weeks, two of my children have utilized the premium version of this program for review.

 

 

How Big IQ Kids Works:

Using Big IQ Kids is simple and quick. You sign up your child (children) with a username and password. Then the learning can begin. Each day your child signs in to Big IQ Kids and does one lesson from each skill area. Each lesson takes about 10-15 minutes. After they complete each lesson, they win game coins. The game coins can then be used to play a variety of games.

As a parent or teacher you can customize the learning based on your child’s needs. For math, you can select the math function (adding, subtracting, multiplication, division), the degree of difficulty and whether you want all or one area focused on. If your child is learning multiplication facts for 2′s and 3′ you can select to just work on those numbers.

The spelling program is customizable as well. Big IQ Kids have preset spelling lists for grades K-8. However, if you use your own spelling curriculum, you can input your child’s words and have those  studied on Big IQ kids. From robot practice to a spelling bee, Big IQ Kids offer fun, interactive ways to learn to spell.

Next is the vocabulary section of the program. As your child studies the vocabulary words they will learn antonyms and synonyms as well. Each word is covered thoroughly and through the lessons, quizzes and tests, your child will quickly expand their vocabulary.

*A note on the vocabulary program – In the vocabulary section the lowest grade is third grade. So your youngest students would not utilize this portion of the program.

Then we have US Geography. This portion of the program will teach state location, spelling, capitals and basic state facts. It works your child toward mastery of these skills and ends with a “State Mastery Exam”.

 

As your child completes each of these areas, coins are earned. These coins are used on the game page.

This is the reward for all the hard work your child has done. From connect four to mouse trap to crazy taxi there are many games to choose from. Some games require one coins while others cost two. Having to “pay” to play is a built in time control for game play.

Free vs. Premium – which is right for me?

When you visit Big IQ Kids you will quickly see that there are two options: free or premium. Why would I want premium? Premium gives your more options; timed drills, progress reports*, automatic advancement upon mastery and review. However, maybe you aren’t sure this presentation is right for your child, then trying the free program and then upgrading to premium would be a wise choice. This video helps explain the benefits of premium:

 

*I really appreciate the emailed progress reports I received from Big IQ Kids. My children have utilized other online programs that left me in the dark as a parent and teacher on the progress of my child. Big IQ’s progress reports will let me know what words were misspelled, if she mastered in math and advanced or what vocabulary words gave her problems.

Personal Thoughts:

*At first glace I was a bit concerned about the “busyness” of the screen. It did not bother my girls at all. They have navigated through the programs with no issues.

*I love the customizable feature. My 7 year old is not a strong reader so I choose to change the preset spelling list to make it more attainable for her. I wanted to build her confidence and it has worked great.

*My 10 year old daughter loves the program. She is not a natural speller and has struggled to learn her math facts. She does her Big IQ every day and her excitement over reaching 100% in spelling or mastering at math is thrilling for me.

*I would recommend caution on the games. The first few times I helped in the selection of games and a few have been banned due to our family standards. My girls found a few that they really enjoy and mainly stick with those. They know to ask me before trying a new game we aren’t familiar with. I love that the coins limit the time on games so more time isn’t spent playing than learning.

Game coins can also be used for the custom “buddy” your child creates. This has been a favorite of my girls.

*Throughout the learning program, “Jake” is there to help. He explains what the child is to do. The sound is monotone and computerized but clear and understandable. It wasn’t a hindrance to the use of the program at all.

*Overall, I give this program the Burroughs’ Two Thumbs Up. It has worked well for two of my girls. It only takes a short period each day and it is re-enforcing basic skills of learning. You have to know your child and the learning approach that works best.

How much does this cost?

Pricing varies on if you want one program or all four. You can pay monthly or yearly. For pricing details, go here.

If you are still unsure, there are many free options you can try first and make sure the fit is right for you!

Want to know what others are saying? Head on over to the Crew and check it out!

**Disclaimer – As a member of TOS Review Crew, I received complimentary use of the product. No compensation was made.