Teach Your Child To Spell

English spelling rules are notoriously complex and can be very confusing. According to say-it-in-english.com, the English language has 1,100 different ways to spell 44 separate sounds! It's no wonder children (and adults) often struggle while learning to spell. In my experience I have found that the best way to learn to spell is through practice, practice, practice.

Here are some simple ways to practice spelling with your child:

1. Make spelling words relevant. For example, use your child's spelling list to write a letter to a grandparent or friend. Use at least three words from the list in the letter.

2. Put a relevant spelling word on a card. Have your child rehearse it, then turn the card over and practice saying it without looking. Put the word on the refrigerator or somewhere where it will be seen often.

3. Trace over a spelling word with your finger or a pencil. This reinforces the visual memory task involved in spelling.

4. Write a spelling word in large letters on a card or piece of paper. Cover part of the word and have your child spell the covered part. For example, when learning how to spell the months, cover the J-a-n in January so it looks like this: ---uary.

5. Break spelling words into syllables. Long words tend to be threatening.

6. Play crossword puzzles and scrabble games.

7. Pay attention to the type of spelling errors your learner is making.

8. Keep a "spelling notebook". Have your child keep a list of words they commonly misspell or have trouble with.

9. Keep a list of commonly misspelled English words, or words that may be spelled correctly, but misused. (e.g. who's and whose) This list can be referenced by your child when they are not sure how to spell a word.

10. Keep a list of rules for spelling. This is great for older children.

11. READ WITH YOUR CHILD!

12. Remember, learning to spell is a lifelong journey. Remind your child that even adults make spelling errors! It's okay to make mistakes!

(From www.say-it-in-english and www.studygs.net)