Lately, homeschooling my oldest {1st grade} has been a bit of a struggle. His motivation has been at a low. So, I began searching for websites that I could use to spice up his learning a bit more. Every time I’d find something that looked good, we’d try out the trial version. “This is boring.” or “I don’t like this.” was usually his response. Not exactly what I wanted to hear.
But I was excited when Time 4 Learning gave me the opportunity to review their website. I did some “research” on my own, looking at their Lesson Demos and Curriculum Overview. It really seemed that Time 4 Learning would be a good fit for my son…AND IT HAS BEEN! He actually asks to get on and play! That’s motivation!
What is Time 4 Learning?
Time 4 Learning is an online educational program that can be used for many purposes and for many content areas. They have activities {and tons, I might add} for reading, language arts, math, science, and social studies, for ages PreK through 5th grades.
- If your child is struggling in one particular area {or more than one}, you can be sure to find help on their site.
- If your child is struggling in a particular content area, Time 4 Learning is a great alternative to tutoring.
- If you’re new to homeschooling {or even a seasoned pro}, Time 4 Learning can supplement your teaching on your child’s level.
- If you’d like something to use this summer to keep skills fresh, Time 4 Learning is a great choice.
My Kids Like Time 4 Learning Because…
It’s easy to navigate and play. I sat down with my kids the first time to show them the ropes, but it’s not complicated. The activities are predictable, but not boring; which helps in independent use. I heard more squeals of, “Mom, come see this!” versus, “Mom, I just clicked on something and I don’t know what to do.” I’ve been on plenty of websites where the latter was true, but not Time 4 Learning.
The games are fun and interactive. Songs, puzzles, stories, and cute little characters are used to make learning fun. When you have to beg your child to get off to come eat lunch, you know you’ve found a winner!
I am using Time 4 Learning with 2 of my children {PreK level and 1st grade}, although I really should have signed my almost 3 year old up because she tries to play as well. 🙂
I Like Time 4 Learning Because…
It is adjusted to my kids’ levels of learning. If you’re not sure what level your child should be on, Time 4 Learning guides you through that process by asking you a set of questions while you’re setting up their accounts. This is vital, as learning happens best when the child is not bored or frustrated.
The Parental Controls. I LOVE that Time 4 Learning has settings that parents can adjust for learning time and playground time {games kids can play that aren’t as educationally-based}. This is VITAL for moms like me with multiple kids who can’t just sit and monitor their kid’s every move on a website. I can leave my child to attend to another and not worry that he’s off the learning games and just playing randomly.
There are so many different subject areas and such great content in each area. We have used Time 4 Learning to supplement every subject area, but I’ve been very pleased with how well their science lessons have been in line with ours lately, particularly for my 1st grader!
My kids ask for it with no prompting. I love it when instead of asking for Angry Birds, my 4 year old will ask me, “Mom, can I play Time 4 Learning?”
Now, that’s impressive!
~Becky
I can’t wait to check it out. I’m working away on our summer learning plans as we speak!
I would love to try it with my soon-to-be kindergartner girl.
I have 3 kids and have seriously decided to put time4learning into the lead for curriculum choice! Would love to try it first!
I like the idea of using it for reinforcement over the summer.
I have 4 kiddos in PreK through 4th and this looks perfect for us. I would love to use it in addition to the curriculum we already use. My kinder loves computer games of any kind and this would be educational for him as well.
I think my daughter would benefit from this. She is going through a phase where she is resistant to me teaching her, a neutral party might be the key.
I have wondered if Time 4 Learning was good. Thanks for the info.
I’d like to try this for my first grader for use over the summer.
Sounds like a really fun program! I’m trying to decide whether or not to homeschool, this might be a big help!
Sounds like a great program for some of my students. Btw, I found your blog through Pinterest and I am soooo excited to use so many ideas. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
I would use this as a supplement for my struggling reader.
I’m strongly considering using this as a supplement to our 1st grade year curriculum. Thanks for the review & giveaway!
do you recommend that your child be able to read well before going to this? We are currently using ABCmouse.com, but I feel that he is starting to outgrow it.
No. Time 4 Learning has PreK levels as well.
Time4Learning really is a Great program! I have been using this curriculum for both of my kids for several years now and my only issue I have discovered so far, is what I am going to do when my kids finish 8th grade?! ( T4L is only pre-k-8th).
There was one thing I wanted to address, that you said in your review. You mentioned that you wish you had gotten an account for your 3 year old. My son started this program at only 3 years old and he did wonderful at it! Yes, it took him longer to finish the entire pre-k sections, as I allowed him to go at his own pace and redo lessons that he either wanted to or needed to do, but he really did well with it even though he was so young. Seeing as you already have a child in pre-k, you could always just allow your 3 year old to work on lessons your eldest has already done.
Anyways, just an idea 😉
Great idea! I had the opportunity to create an account for her, but didn’t think she’d be interested. Boy, was I wrong! 🙂