But parents can help them improve spelling in these ways:

• Play word games together. Games like Scrabble and even Wheel of Fortune let kids experiment with different spellings and get instant feedback.

• Nurture a love of reading. Reading exposes children to correct spellings.

• Encourage your child to write a lot—in journals, letters, etc. Writing gives children a chance to practice spelling rules.

• If your child asks for help with a word, give it to him. Write the word or spell it as he writes it. Seeing the word will help him remember it next time.

• Don’t be overly critical. Just concentrate on improving spelling over time.

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