Supporting Children’s Learning Beyond the Classroom

Where internet access is available, digital platforms and educational apps can offer valuable support for children’s development. These tools can help children learn, practice skills, and grow in various subjects.

Below is a curated list of free and open digital learning tools that provide non-formal, supplementary education resources. These are intended to complement—not replace—materials provided by teachers or schools. Most of these platforms are free to use, while some may offer optional paid features.

Note: Inclusion on this list does not equate to official endorsement by UNICEF. However, each platform has been recognized for its accessibility and impact. Resources in multiple languages are included whenever possible.

Keeping Online Learning Safe and Engaging for Kids

Parents and caregivers should:

• Stay involved in their children’s learning experiences. Technology should complement human interaction, especially with younger children.

• Safeguard children’s privacy. Always check that platforms do not ask for sensitive personal data such as identity, ethnicity, or location.

Digital Storybooks and Reading Resources

• Think Equal: Offers online picture books that help young children build emotional and social skills like empathy, communication, and resilience.

• Druzinata MELA: Storybooks in Macedonian and Albanian aimed at preschool and early primary learners.

• Step by Step: Digital audio books and sign language-narrated stories in Macedonian, Albanian, Turkish, and Bosnian.

• Global Digital Library: A multilingual resource for early-grade reading materials accessible via computer.

• StoryWeaver: A vast collection of children’s stories in multiple languages, accessible on both mobile devices and desktops.

Language Learning Apps

• Akelius: A platform that helps learners—especially those new to literacy—study foreign languages. Available in English, Greek, French, and Swedish.

• Duolingo: A popular, gamified language-learning app available via desktop or mobile, in dozens of languages.

Comprehensive Learning Platforms

Great for older children, teens, and self-motivated learners:

• Alison: Free courses in various subjects, available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and Portuguese.

• Coursera: Offers courses from top universities and companies, mostly in English, for free with optional paid certificates.

• edX: A wide range of university-level courses accessible for free via mobile or computer.

• EkStep: Offers resources focused on literacy and numeracy, primarily in English.

• Khan Academy: Trusted platform with lessons, videos, and quizzes across subjects. Supports multiple languages.

• Hummingbirds: Open-source platform built for offline use, ideal for low-connectivity areas.

Free Coding and Technology Education

There are many platforms offering free programming and ICT education for kids of all ages—from preschool to teens. These tools help build future-ready digital skills and are available in various programming languages.

Environmental & Climate Learning Guides

Interactive guides on climate education tailored to preschool, primary, and secondary students are also available. Developed in collaboration with UNICEF and Sweden, these resources are accessible in Macedonian and Albanian.