Reading and Writing Help for Kids

Developmental spelling, or inventive spelling, takes advantage of a child’s natural curiosity about the written word. The process itself builds his confidence, because his accomplishments come through his own efforts. The negativity and fear of being wrong is taken out of the equation by focusing on the process, instead of the final result.

Just as you would encourage a two year old's efforts at speaking, developmental spelling uses encouragement, exposure, and positive reinforcement to teach the written word. A child is allowed to think for himself and progress naturally.

According to Sandra Wilde, the author of You Can Red This! (Heinemann, 1991), children begin experimenting with written communication well before they are formally introduced to the topic. Using this personal interest to teach spelling early in childhood can give kids an edge in school.

Spelling and Writing Encouragement

The main principle of developmental spelling is to encourage your child to think for herself. Do not spell words out for her. Use questions to figure out the answer. What sounds do you hear? What do you hear if you say the word more slowly? Can you write down the letters you think are in the word?

Praise your child after she has spelled her word. Talk about the sounds she got right. Discussion and encouragement will make spelling less intimidating, and more interesting.

Studies, such as those reviewed in Marilyn Jager Adams’ Beginning to read: Thinking and learning about print (The MIT Press, 1994), have shown as your child learns more letters and sounds, she will correct her own spelling, progressing through different, specific stages, until standard writing is achieved. Each stage is important and represents a learning progression that does not need to be corrected.

Developmental Spelling in your Home

There are many easy and fun ways to implement this learning strategy with your own kids.

• Dictate a grocery list and ask your kids to help with the shopping trip.
• Ask your child to help with thank you notes and gifts.
• Set up a family message center where they can post their own notes.
• Discuss letters in road signs.
• Make writing materials readily available.
• Allow your child to lead; offer assistance, but do not be overbearing.
• Accept and encourage all attempts at writing.
• Read together as often as possible.

By giving your child an open and fun way of exploring the written language, you are not only supporting his progress, but you are teaching him to enjoy learning.

Developmental spelling is the primary teaching style supported in education by the International Reading Association and the National Council of Teachers of English. By understanding the method being used in school, and applying the same principles at home, parents can give their child a powerful start.

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