Spelling can be difficult and frustrating for kids, especially since the English language has so many rules and exceptions. However, there are ways to make learning to spell fun for kids! One way is by playing spelling games for kids.
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Spelling games are a great way for kids to spell because they’re interactive and engaging. Plus, they can be played anywhere – at home, in the car, or even at school. In this blog, we will share nine of the best spelling games for kids. Also, we’ll share a list of online spelling games and educational resources so that you can get started right away!
9 Spelling Games for Kids That Are Equal Parts Fun & Challenging
Here are the nine most famous spelling games for kids of all ages:
1. Hangman
This classic game is a great way to practice spelling words. To play, one player thinks of a word, and the other player tries to guess it by guessing letters. If the letter is in the word, the player gets the point. If not, the player receives a strike. The game ends when the word is guessed or the player gets six strikes.
2. Spelling Bee
Spelling Games for kids are a great way to improve spelling skills. By playing these games, children can learn how to spell words correctly and practice spelling them in a fun and interactive way. To play, children are given a list of spelling words, and they have to spell them correctly. The winner is the child who can spell the most words correctly in a given time.
3. Word Ladder
This spelling game is similar to Hangman but with a twist. Instead of guessing letters, players guess words. The player starts with a clue word, and then they have to spell words that are one letter different from the clue word. For example, if the clue word is “cat,” the next word could be “bat.” The player who gets to the end of the ladder first wins the game.
4. Boggle
One of the all-time classic spelling games, Boggle is perfect for kids of all ages. To play, you’ll need a Boggle board, or if you don’t have one, you can use the worksheets provided. Players take turns finding words in the grid. The longer the word, the more points you get! This game is great for practicing spelling and vocabulary.
5. Word Jumble
This spelling game is perfect for kids just starting to spell words. To play, you’ll need a list of spelling words. Players take turns picking a word and then jumbling it up. The other players have to guess what the word is. The player who correctly guesses the most words wins the game.
6. Word Battle
Word Battle pits two players against each other. Each player writes a list of words on a piece of paper. The words should be ones the other player may not know how to spell. The two players then take turns spelling the words out loud. For each word that is spelled correctly, the player gets the point. The first player to reach 10 points wins the game.
7. Spelling Scavenger Hunt
This spelling game is a twist on the classic scavenger hunt. Instead of looking for objects, players will search for words. Make a list of spelling words and hide them around the house or classroom. Give each player a copy of the spelling list and see who can find all the words first. You can also give players bonus points if they find the words in order.
8. Spell and Toss
This spelling game is perfect for kids who need to get up and move around. All you need is a ball and a list of words. Write a list of spelling words on small pieces of paper, fold them up, and put them in a bucket or hat. Kids pick out a word, spell it correctly, and then toss the ball into a basket or bucket. If the spelling is incorrect, they must return the word and try again.
9. Word Match
Word Match is similar to the classic memory game. You will need a deck of cards and a timer. Write one word on each card, including different spelling levels. For example, you can have words like ‘bat,’ ‘hut,’ and ‘ghost’ for easier words, and ‘acquaintance,’ ‘strenuous,’ and ‘precarious’ for more challenging words. Shuffle the cards and lay them out face down.
Players take turns flipping over two cards, trying to find a match. If they find a match, they keep the pair of cards. If not, they turn the cards back over, and it’s the next player’s turn. The game is over when all the matches have been found.
Related Reading: Best Vocabulary Games
5 Resources for Online Spelling Games for Kids
1. SplashLearn
Who is it for: Kids in PreK through Grade 5
SplashLearn goes beyond just memorizing spellings. It helps kids develop a deep understanding of how letters work together to form words. Here’s how:
- SplashLearn uses interactive games to teach phonics; the sounds individual letters and combinations make. This includes tricky concepts like “bossy R” and diphthongs, ensuring children grasp the fundamental sounds that form the basis of words.
- Fun activities focus on blending these sounds to form words. Kids don’t just memorize; they understand why “train” sounds different from “drain.” This hands-on approach to learning ensures that children comprehend the nuances of spelling.
- As your child progresses, SplashLearn unlocks a library of ebooks. These books put spelling skills to the test in a fun way, reinforcing what they’ve learned. This continual practice helps children retain and apply their spelling knowledge in real-world contexts.
You can track your child’s progress with SplashLearn. This allows you to see which areas are strong and where a little extra practice might be helpful. This personalized approach ensures a strong foundation in spelling, moving beyond the mere memorization of random words.
2. FunBrain
Who is it for: Kids in PreK through Grade 8
This educational game site has a variety of interactive spelling games for kids of all ages. With colorful graphics and entertaining challenges, Funbrain ensures that kids stay motivated while learning. Parents and teachers will love Funbrain for its ability to turn educational content into a fun experience.
3. Word Games
Who is it for: All grades
Word Games is a great site for kids looking for word spelling games that are a little out of the ordinary. You’ll find spelling games like Hangman, Word Scramble, and Word Ladder on this site. These games are perfect for kids who need a break from the traditional spelling game.
4. Spelling-Words-Well
Who is it for: Kids in Kindergarten through Grade 12
Spelling Words Well is a spelling game for kids that can be played online or downloaded as an app. The game features three different spelling modes: Spell It, which tests players on their spelling of words; Beat the Clock, which challenges players to spell as many words as possible in a certain amount of time; and Word Ladder, which tests players on their spelling of words in a certain order.
5. PBS Kids
Who is it for: Kids in preschool to early elementary school
PBS Kids is an excellent resource for spelling games for kids. You’ll find fun online spelling games on the site like WordGirl Spelling Bee, Martha Speaks Dog Tags, and Fetch with Ruff Ruffman Blast Off. These games are perfect for kids who are just starting to spell words.
Related Reading: Best English Language Learning Apps for Kids
Conclusion
Spelling games for kids are a fun and interactive way to help kids learn to spell. They can also provide some friendly competition and some laughs along the way. We’ve provided nine of our favorite fun spelling games for kids to keep them entertained while they improve their spelling skills. So get out there and have some fun!
Related Reading: How to Teach Spelling to Kids
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best way to help my child learn how to spell?
First, make sure that they have a good foundation in phonics. This will help them sound out words and understand the basic building blocks of spelling. Next, provide them with plenty of opportunities to practice spelling words.
What are some of the benefits of playing English spelling games?
English spelling games for kids offer several benefits. They help improve phonemic awareness, phonological processing, and visual processing skills. They also help to build confidence and self-esteem, as well as provide a bit of healthy competition.
What is the best age for kids to start playing spelling games?
There is no “best” age for kids to start playing spelling games. The sooner kids are exposed to the basic building blocks of spelling, the better. This will give them a head start on the learning process and make it easier for them to pick up new words down the road.
