A Reading App for ESL Kids Learning English
Simple English, pictures on every page, and a voice that reads any word aloud. Reading practice for children learning English, starring them.
Children learning English need lots of reading at a level they can follow, with support for the words they don't know yet. Easy ESL story collections and worksheets help, but they run out, and they rarely feel like they're about your child.
Time-2-Read writes new English stories at the reading level you choose, with an illustration on every page and narration you can turn on. Your child is the main character. Stories are in English.
Easy English, your choice of level
Set a simpler level without making the topic feel young.
Hear any word
Tap a word to hear how it sounds, as often as needed.
Pictures that help
An illustration on every page supports meaning while vocabulary grows.
What helps English learners read at home
- Reading at the right level: text where your child knows most of the words.
- Hearing the words: listening while following the text links sound and spelling.
- Pictures: illustrations help children work out new words from context.
- Repetition: rereading a favorite story builds speed and confidence.
- Topics they care about: interest keeps children reading through the hard parts.
Keep the home language strong
Colorín Colorado, a national resource for educators and families of English language learners, shares reading tips for families in 16 languages. They include talking with your child in your home language, the benefits of being bilingual, and sharing stories and songs from your culture. English reading practice works alongside your home language, not instead of it.
How Time-2-Read supports English learners
- Choose a reading level from pre-K upward, separate from your child's age.
- Turn on narration to hear the story, or tap single words.
- Phonics help for sounding out new words.
- A 20-minute timer for a steady daily habit.
- High-interest topics at an easier level: see our page on high-interest, low-level stories.
Frequently asked questions
Is Time-2-Read good for ESL kids?
It can be a helpful practice tool: you set an easier English reading level, every page has an illustration, and any word can be tapped to hear it read aloud.
Are the stories available in other languages?
Stories are currently in English. We recommend keeping your home language strong with books, songs and conversation alongside English reading.
What ages is it for?
Ages 3 to 15, with reading levels from pre-K up to 10th grade.
Can older ESL kids use it without the stories feeling babyish?
Yes. You choose the topic and the reading level separately, so a 12-year-old can read about their interests in simpler English.
How much does Time-2-Read cost?
Your first 3 stories are free. After that, Premium starts with a 7-day free trial, then costs $12.99/month or $99/year.
Sources
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