5 Simple Reasons Why Spelling Can Be A Challenge for Children

Spelling can be a tough challenge for children. There are numerous reasons why children might struggle with spelling, but here are five that stand out:

1. Lack of phonetic understanding

Many words in English don’t follow the traditional rules of phonetics, and it can be difficult for kids to figure out how to spell them without practice.

2. Visual confusion

For some kids, it can be hard to differentiate between similar-looking letters, particularly when written in different fonts.

3. Poor handwriting

Poor handwriting can make it hard to identify words, so kids can end up spelling them wrong even if they know the correct spelling.

4.Poor memorisation

For some kids, it’s difficult to remember the correct spelling of words. This can be especially true for words that are rarely used.

5. Writing and spelling fatigue

Writing and spelling are much more demanding activities than reading. They take a lot more energy from the reader and can be a hindrance for some kids, especially reluctant writers.

Final thoughts

There is a common misconception that reading books is the only way to develop children's literacy skills. However, we are surrounded by words in our everyday lives, and it's essential to recognise the value of these sources. Children are exposed to words, from billboards at bus stops to flyers, magazines, and newspapers.

Parents and educators can use these everyday resources to teach spelling and increase vocabulary. Anything with words, whether a pamphlet or a poster, can become a spelling word for a child. By incorporating these text sources into learning activities, we can help children develop strong literacy skills and a love of language.