How to Teach Spelling With Kids' Games

Play a game like Simon Says, but spell the key words rather than saying them. Ask the kids to "j-u-m-p" up and down, for example. Reverse roles after a few rounds, making them spell the instructions for you.

Ask the kids to point out letters when you're playing, watching television or driving in the car. Have them spell words whenever possible, such as the specific card they're requesting while playing Go Fish or putting down pairs during a round of Old Maid, for example.

Have your kids read the instructions or tips before you play a new electronic, card or board game. Also reinforce comprehension skills by asking them to tell you what a specific step means, requiring them to summarize what they just read.

Use time in the car or waiting in line at an amusement park, for example, to play games like Sparkle. Give the kids a word and have them take turns adding a letter until they've completed it. The person whose turn it is after the last letter is given says, "Sparkle" and the person following him is "out." Continue until one person remains.

Buy entertaining games like Boggle Junior that will teach younger kids to turn letters into words and also practice matching and object recognition. When playing other games you've got on hand like Candyland, for example, require them to spell the color card they've drawn. (See Resources)

Bookmark an assortment of websites that feature fun kids' games designed to teach spelling, decoding and comprehension skills.