Teaching your child to write can be a challenging and sometimes overwhelming experience. The resistance, the games they play, and that spark of enthusiasm slowly fading away. Handwriting and reading, no matter how hard we try to avoid them, require a certain level of repetition. What do children dislike more than the monotone writing of something over and over again? It reminds me of the lines we used to write as children for punishment.
I too was once stuck in the rut of teaching children repetitive writing until I discovered a way to make it enjoyable. I employ these techniques both online and in the classroom. Here are 9 ways I use to keep my children engaged when practicing spelling and reading.
The hands-on games are inspired by the science of reading Bundle and the online games I use with my tutoring students.
1. Classroom Timer Race:
I challenge the children to write faster than they did previously. We review our sight words then. We set a number we’re going to beat. For example, if the child wrote 15 words in 3 minutes in our last session, I will challenge them to write 20 and so on. I usually use Class Dojo as a point system where they can win prizes after reaching a certain goal, providing motivation. You could implement something similar.
2. Roll and Write:
The “Roll and Write” game, available in the Science of Reading Bundle’s CVC words bundle, is another fantastic way to get children writing and practicing their letters, spelling, and reading. This game is suitable for 3 to 5-year-olds. Children enjoy rolling the dice and rewriting words. In a home setting, establish a routine and vary the activities daily. Please note that the bundle is American, so it uses American spelling and English words.
3. Spell and write:
Although this activity may require a specific set of counters, I genuinely use whatever I have on hand. I’m only human, and the children enjoy the puzzle of figuring out which letters make what words and then ensuring it sticks in their head by writing it down. It’s a wonderful rotation activity for those who have a structured homeschool or want to incorporate it into their Montessori teaching.
4. Writing on the Screen:
When I tutor, parents don’t always see their children’s work because sessions, especially for children aged 4 to 7, should be interactive and fun. Having children write in a book for 45 minutes is boring. The children are taught by their parents to use the zoom pen, adding ICT skills to their repertoire. This approach helps keep the session engaging, and children tend to enjoy writing on the screen. It’s also a way for them to communicate their wants and needs and have a dialogue with me.
5. Cover the Code:
This “Cover the Code” game is a game-changer. Not only can children play it on their own, reinforcing reading skills, but they also get to have fun and think deeply! You can use counters that your children are interested in, not just cars or trains but maybe their favorite stickers or toys to cover the code. You could even have a race with them to see who finishes first. It’s all practice. So, get that laminator and printer out!
6. Clip the Words to Match the Picture:
Many parents underestimate the importance of fine motor skills and the role they play in good handwriting. “Clip the words” helps with fine motor skills, such as the pincer grip, which strengthens the muscles used for pencil grip and smooth handwriting. Scientifically, with this activity, you’re working on both handwriting and reading skills. The handwriting is incognito, as the child doesn’t even realize they’re practicing, kind of like taking them out for a “run in the park” to tire them out for bedtime. It’s a win-win scenario!
7. Online Subscriptions
While some may suggest websites like ‘’Top Marks,’’ children are tech-savvy and can bypass systems we didn’t even know existed. Therefore, the best approach is to get subscriptions like Nessy.com or ed shed. Many of these subscriptions have a specific color scheme, and you can use some parenting tools to lock them into the apps so that they only play these educational games. It will be easier to tell when they use them, and you’re more likely to use them since you’ve paid for them.
8. Action cards:
I bought these Action cards from Phonics Fun Printables. I was surprised how the children independently used them and created games with them, they were engaged throughout and made their own challenges!
9. Tutoring:
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Like you don’t have enough time but you really want your child to have fun experiences with learning to read and write. If you have an active child and you’re feeling overwhelmed with the amount of work you have to do with them, then it’s okay to seek professional help.
While you were still contemplating these children made progress.…
This is what one parent had to say…
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“If you’re looking for someone who is patient, builds rapport, and gives your child the ability to read and write while making learning enjoyable, and someone who is punctual, consistent in their teaching, communicates well with parents, and fosters an Islamic environment—register with Nana Abenia.
Umm Saalih
/ Mother of Former Tutee
