Kitsunewa Writing Practice vs LetterSchool

Kitsunewa Writing Practice helps learners practice Japanese kana and kanji stroke order by watching, tracing or writing characters from memory. Learners can practice individual characters or words, study the stroke order first, or begin memory practice with hints. The “Your own” option takes Japanese text, such as a name or sentence, and makes its unique characters available to practice. Writing practice runs in a browser without signup or rounds and scores; learners can repeat characters and personal bests are saved on their device. A mouse or trackpad works, as does finger input on phones and tablets. The tool is available on the web, Android and iOS. The Free plan is free and includes writing practice and other tools. Pro costs $4.08/mo (annual), billed $49 yearly, and includes Advanced Essentials after a free preview, higher AI conversation caps and unlimited guided speaking lessons. Advanced Essentials batches require an account. Pro can be cancelled in account settings, with access through the billing period’s end.

LetterSchool teaches handwriting, phonics, numbers and spelling through activities for young children. It is described as designed for ages three to eight, with a listed target age range of two to six. Letter practice moves through guided tapping, tracing and independent writing. The app gives visual and auditory feedback and corrects each line as a child draws it. Languages listed include English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Dutch, Japanese, Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish, Danish and Arabic. English users can choose Handwriting Without Tears, Zaner-Bloser or D’Nealian handwriting styles. The free app costs nothing and includes five uppercase and lowercase letters, five shapes and three CVC flashcards covering nine words. Paid access is listed from $1.92/mo (annual), with a 7-day trial. LetterSchool is available on Android, iOS, macOS and Windows. The school offering is currently iOS-only as LetterSchool – Block Letters. The maker says the app has no ads or social media and does not seek to collect personally identifiable information directly from children under 13.