Words, like spider webs, are found virtually everywhere. When you consider a spiderweb, its silken threads are all connected to each other or another object, such as a plant or a window. Insects are caught within a sticky web to hold them captive. An abandoned web is often referred to as a cobweb, which is tangled weave of misshapen threads.

Vocabulary words are the main source for growing a child’s language. Young children in particular will use concrete images to “attach” their new words to give them foundation. For example, a child who deals with visual dyslexia will use pictures as “mental grippers,” like sticky notes, for recalling them later. If you have a child that learns best being active, let them jumprope as they rhyme words or draw the words in shaving cream. 

The key is getting the children to use the words repeatedly. Allow them to explore different options; playtime is often how kids learn best. If children learn new words but then do not interact with them in reading, play, or conversation, they will easily forget them in just a few days. Words form a tangled web of knowledge because one word can lead to many meanings. 

So how do we encourage new words in day to day life with our kids? The most important thing is reading to them, regardless of their age or ability. It is best for kids to have the opportunity to read some books simply for fun, even if they are “below” their reading level. It is just as important for them to gain confidence by reading books on their level. In order to build an even stronger web of vocabulary words, it is crucial that we offer books above their level, a challenge, by reading aloud to them or listening to them read.

Spiders will often have to rebuild their webs every day or so. If we apply that concept to reading webs, we need to be reviewing and rebuilding the recognition of new vocabulary as often as possible. It will solidify and create strong connections which will increase a children’s literacy skills exponentially. “Repetition is the mother of all learning.” (Zig Ziglar)

I am known as a logo maniac…a lover of words! They fascinate me. I’ve also been accused on many occasions of making up words of my own. I am sharing some ideas I have found helpful in teaching vocabulary to expand reading and writing skills.

1. Word Webs — give a child a simple word and have them write down any words they think of that are connected. Continue expanding the web with each word they write down.

2. Eye Spy — an easy activity that can be played anywhere 

3. Word Dress-up — make a list of general words such as red, car, and utensil and have your child write down a more specific kind such as scarlet, stationwagon, and fork.

4. Shhh or shout — explain a vocabulary term and then to reinforce it, give phrases and have your child shout if it fits the word or stay silent if it doesn’t fit. This provides understanding of word usage or context.

5. Category Sort — sort a list of vocabulary words into categories, helps teach continuity of sounds and meanings

6. Pieces and Pairs — give your children words in pairs and have them explain ifthey are opposites, synonyms, homonyms, compound words, or unrelated

7. Rhyme Time — give your child a word and reward them a token for every rhyming word they can add; then total of tokens can be used for a new book

8. Scavenger Hunt — once your child learns a list of vocabulary words, do a hunt for those words in word search puzzle, magazines, billboards, books, etc

9. Board game Busters — playtime with Boggle, Pictionary, Blurt, or Bananagrams…just to name a few

10. Vocabulary Album — create a photobook of vocabulary words and their definitions with either personal drawings or clipart