Ello

Ello is an AI reading and math tutor for children ages 5 to 9 that listens while kids read aloud and responds the way a patient reading coach would. Most reading apps have children tap answers; Ello's core skill is speech, so it can hear a child sound out a word and step in at the right moment. It follows the science of reading, which matters to parents and teachers who want phonics-based instruction.

What is Ello used for?

Families use Ello to give early readers daily one-to-one practice at home.

• Reading books aloud with an AI tutor that listens and helps with hard words
• Moving through a library of thousands of leveled books at and above the child's level
• Creating custom stories about topics the child loves
• Practicing early math in interactive one-to-one lessons
• Following a personalized daily plan built around the child's skills and interests
• Getting parent reports on strengths, growth areas and milestones

Who Ello is best for

Ello suits parents of kindergarten through third grade children who are learning to read or need extra practice, including reluctant readers and children who are behind grade level. Homeschooling families can use it as part of a literacy routine. Children older than nine or already fluent readers will outgrow it, and families looking for a full curriculum across every subject will need other resources.

Ello pricing

As of October 2026, Ello says it is committed to a free experience for all families, with free daily reading and math activities in the app. An optional paid upgrade adds premium features. The website does not list the price of the upgrade; it is shown in the iOS and Android apps. Check the supported devices page before downloading, since the app needs a microphone and runs on phones and tablets.

Limitations to keep in mind

• Built only for ages 5 to 9
• Premium pricing is visible only in the app
• Speech recognition for young children can misread some words, especially with background noise
• It supports, but does not replace, a teacher's assessment of reading difficulties such as dyslexia

Ello vs alternatives

ChatGPT and Google Gemini can read stories with children or answer their questions, but they are general assistants not designed to follow a phonics sequence or listen to a child read a leveled book. Learn About from Google helps older learners explore topics in depth rather than learn to decode text. Ello wins for parents who want a dedicated, child-safe tutor for early reading with progress reports.

Tips for getting started with Ello

Set the app up on a tablet in a quiet room so the microphone hears your child clearly. Sit with your child for the first few sessions so they get used to reading aloud to Ello. Use the create-your-own-books feature as a reward for kids who resist reading. Check the parent report weekly and celebrate the milestones it highlights.

Ello FAQ

Is Ello free?

Yes, Ello offers free daily reading and math activities for families. An optional paid upgrade with premium features is available in the app.

What age is Ello for?

Ello is designed for children ages 5 to 9, covering early reading and math from kindergarten through about third grade.

How does Ello work?

Ello listens as a child reads a book aloud, helps with words they struggle on, and adjusts the pace and level of lessons in real time.

Is Ello safe for kids?

Ello applies real-time safety filters to what children say and alerts a grown-up when needed, and it sends parents progress reports.