iPads have become a staple in early education classrooms, allowing teachers to download applications to meet the educational needs of their students.

There is definitely an app for that. Applications on iPads have grown exponentially. There are many fantastic apps that can be used in the classroom such as RAZ-Kids, IXL, Scratch Jr., etc.

Fun Math is an easy to use math application that includes puzzles, equations, and more.

iTooch Elementary School is an application that has fun and engaging lessons that look at math, ELA, and science.

Monster Math is a fun app for early elementary students that helps build adding, subtracting, and problem solving skills

Both explorative learning and technology in the classroom and at home go hand in hand. Encouraging children to ask questions, exploring to learn on their own and with direction, and transferring that to technology use is important to educational growth.

Curiosity and explorative learning are great friends. Here are a few examples of how explorative learning can be coupled with technology in the classroom.

Building blocks are a foundational piece of early elementary learning. This will eventually transform into geometry and the ability to use applications to help identify shapes, their attributes, and even colors.

The first step to learning how to read (or becoming a stronger reader) is through letter recognition. Allowing students to explore throughout the classroom, looking at games, boxes, and doors, will propel a child at a faster rate. This will be beneficial when using technology. For example, simply entering in a web address requires letter recognition. This will also lead children into document production, allow for ease through applications, and more.

Another activity could include shape recognition. This could be a 2D or 3D experience and could include teaching students about lines of symmetry, parallel lines, and perpendicular lines. At an advanced level, this could also include recognizing 90 degree angles and teaching the difference between acute and obtuse angles.

The number one thing that comes out of exploration and teaching technology is the discussion. Whether it's simply asking questions (because there might be a student that is too introverted to ask), having a student share session, or working on the Smart Board, communication is so important to a child's development.

There are thousands of web sites/applications for students to use in class and at home. Here is a website that offers a FREE experience.

FREE Educational Web Sites and Applications