s.m.a.r.t. at home

Last month, we shared a way to infuse a little fun into spelling practice. This month, we would like to add to your homework help bag of tricks by giving you an activity that pairs movement with learning. ​

Take your child’s spelling words and write them in a bit larger print on a sheet of paper. Encourage your child to read the whole word and then spell each individual sound. While they are spelling, add in a movement. Here are some of our favorite suggestions:

• Bounce and catch a ball
• Toss and catch an object
• Stand on one foot and balance
  
• Use a mini trampoline and bounce while spelling
• Jumping jacks
  
• March in place and slap your knee with your opposite hand

The more times the word is spelled, the more inputs or repetitions enter the brain, helping with retention. Movement anchors learning, making an academic task more active and fun!