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Learning to read is a normal part of childhood, and most children learn to read fairly effortlessly. But for some children, this important milestone becomes a roadblock, putting the future of their education at risk. The website, Reading Rockets.org, says that 40% of children struggle with learning to read. They go on to say that the longer it takes for a child to learn, the lower their chances of ever catching up with their peers.
Every child learns differently, and what works for one, might not work for the next. Parents and teachers have to figure out what is going to help each of their children to learn to read to the best of their ability.
Some children have learning disabilities which will hinder their reading and writing skills. Some children, however, just need the extra practice. Maybe, for whatever reason, they missed one important concept, and they are having difficulty learning the more advanced reading skills. It may be difficult to figure out which little piece they are missing, and they could struggle indefinitely.
Free online resources for interactive learn to read and spelling games
The internet has a large number of free resources available to help with teaching the skills necessary learn to read. Many of these are the kind of interactive games that children love to play.
This is a list of some of the best free online resources for interactive reading and spelling games.
Starfall.com
This website has been around for several years and has a great free online phonics program for pre-k through the second-grade level. It teaches phonics through games and interactive stories. They have material you can buy, but much of that material is free to print from your own printer. Recently, they added an app for your iPod, iPhone, or iPad so your child can play wherever they happen to be.
Literactive.com
Another very good online reading program for preschool through first-grade levels. It has lots of reading practice through games and fun. The site is free to use, but you do have to register. Printable worksheets are also available to go along with the games your children are playing.
Spin and Spell
is a nice game for children who are learning to spell common words. They choose a picture and spell the word by clicking on letters on a wheel. If they need help, the game will help them. It is low pressure and lots of fun.
Sandcastle Quiz
The child chooses a spelling pattern and practices filling in the missing letters for words that fit that spelling pattern.
Drag and Spell
This game is a fun way to practice making words.
Harcourt Brace Spelling
This is a great game that goes along with the Harcourt Brace Spelling program for grades 1-6. It would, however, be useful no matter which spelling program you are using. The computer says a spelling word, and the student drags the letter tiles into the correct order to spell that word.
Look, Cover, Write, Check
Provides practice in spelling common spelling words.
Spelling City
has online spelling games and worksheets. You can use their lists or put your own into the system. Many features on this website are free, however, they do have premium content which includes record keeping and more games.
Houghton Mifflin Spelling Match Game
is a word matching game that goes along with this company’s spelling program. You do not have to be using this spelling program to benefit from this game.
Final thoughts
This is, by no means, a complete list of everything available online. Some of these are sites I have found and have enjoyed with my own children. Sites like Starfall and Literactive have kept my children busy, learning for hours. They truly are the best of the best. Spelling City is another one of the best. Others are great for a few minutes of fun between lessons or whenever a break from the books is in order. Either way, I think you are going to find that these websites will be very helpful in giving your child some extra encouragement. And we can all use a little more encouragement.
Photo Credit: depositphotos.com
