Show HN: A daily news app that helps kids build reading and thinking skills
zaplearner.comHi HN, I’ve been working on a web app that turns real-world news into a short daily learning experience for kids. The idea came from watching how most “learning apps” either feel like test prep or oversimplify content. I wanted something that helps kids understand real news, build vocabulary, and think — without grades or pressure. How it works: * Each day, the app generates one age-appropriate news article * Kids read the article and answer 5 simple questions * The app highlights a small set of useful vocabulary words with explanations in context * Progress is tracked via streaks, titles, and badges (Explorer → Thinker → Decoder → Scholar → Sage) No leaderboards, no scores shown to kids, no “wrong answer” shaming. Some design choices I made intentionally: * Vocabulary focuses on usefulness, not memorization * Progress is identity-based, not performance-based This is still early-stage and I’m looking for feedback from: * parents * educators * people who’ve built learning products * anyone opinionated about how kids shouldn’t be taught
Demo: https://zaplearner.com/trial
Happy to answer technical or product questions. Feedback (positive or critical) is very welcome.
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