Spelling games for kids can be an important part of your language arts program. Since spelling is a crucial skill for elementary school students to acquire, you will agree that we must find as many ways as possible to teach and reinforce it.

The normal weekly routine in spelling class goes something like this: take a pretest of the new spelling words, write the new words 10 times each, write the definition of each word, use each word in a sentence, take a post test, etc. U.S. If that gets a little boring for you as a teacher, think how much more boring it must be for your students.

Adding spelling games for kids just two or three times a month is a great way to add some pizzazz to your spelling program AND to motivate your students. We all know that some students are just excellent spelllers. Others struggle with spelling and don’t seem to care if they improve or notice. And others can learn and will improve when given enough practice and motivation.

Most spelling games require students to work in teams and spell words in front of other students. What kids don’t want to shine and succeed in front of their peers? When planning spelling games from time to time, many students will want to get it right to help their team. Y be seen as successful in front of others.

With all that said, here are some important tips for using spelling games for kids in your classroom:

1. Always announce when you will be playing spelling games, at least a few days in advance. This generates enthusiasm and motivation to learn.

2. Tell your students what words you will use. After all, the goal is not to fool your children, but to teach them to spell and give them lots of practice to learn important words.

3. Play different types of spelling games. Spelling Bee is great, but there are plenty of other fun formats too.

4. Use games in which students can compete individually, in pairs, and in teams. Generally speaking, the more students in a group, the less each person will participate. When children compete in smaller team units, they will get more practice.

5. Keep track of the games that work best for you. Write down which games you have used with which spelling units, the strengths of the games, and the ways in which the games can be improved. Don’t be afraid to make up your own games or variations.

6. Share your best game ideas with your colleagues. Share ideas for your students to play spelling games with family members at home.

7. Remember that the end goal of all your spelling games for kids is to reinforce spelling skills.