Learn How to Spell: Activities and Exercises

How to Help Your Child Practice Spelling

There are several methods to help your child practice spelling and become better prepared for weekly spelling exams. Common practice exercises include reviewing flashcards and repeatedly writing out word lists. However, there are other types of activities that may prove more engaging for your son or daughter. The following word games and puzzles provide the opportunity to spell and write words while still having fun.

Fun Spelling Games for Beginners

Scrabble

The classic word game, Scrabble, can be a fun way to get the whole family involved in your child's beginning spelling efforts. Because this game can be used as a general spelling exercise and doesn't focus on a specific list of words, it may be beneficial for your daughter to have a partner to help. The game can be played as usual, but as each player takes a turn, have your child spell out the word and then sound it out. When it's your child's turn, let her choose and place the tiles. Only provide help if asked.

Spelling Concentration

By adding a twist to the game Concentration, you can make spelling practice more engaging for your son. Play the game as usual with an even amount of cards lying face-down in rows, but the images on the cards will represent your child's spelling words for the week. If a match is made, your child must write the word out on the scorecard for the match to be complete. If he spells the word incorrectly, flip them back over and let the next player go. You can act as one of the players and the scorekeeper if there are no other family members available to take turns.

Word Jumble

Creating a word jumble out of your child's weekly spelling list is a simple way to let your child practice writing out her spelling words without feeling pressured to simply write them over and over again. This is an activity you can create yourself, or there are several free websites that allow you to enter the words into a form and automatically generate a customized puzzle for your child to complete.