language and literacy
clap out words
Teaching syllables to kids is really fun and simple with this great game!
Clap Out Words quickly became one of our favorites in my classroom as well as at home!
First, show your child how to “clap out” a word by saying a word and clapping to each syllable.
Example
Elephant would be
el-e-phant
Clapping once for each syllable.
Clap out words and names that have a lot of meaning and significance to your child. You can also clap out silly words that make you both laugh! Have your child take a turn picking out the words. You can even use nonsense or made-up words!
Variations
-
Jump to each syllable
-
Throw a ball back and forth for each syllable
Play a note on a instrument for each syllable
language and literacy
benefits of teaching syllables
why teach syllables?
Teaching syllables is incredibly important as syllables are the phonological building blocks of words. Teaching kids how to divide words into chunks is an important early reading skill and will greatly increase your child’s ability to decode words. Learning how to divide a word into syllables will also improve a child’s ability to write and spell correctly.
Benefits of teaching syllables
Fun with word play
Encourages experimenting with words and sounds
Teaches the concept of syllables
Isolates and reinforces beginning, middle and ending sounds in words
Promotes phonological awareness
Materials needed
none
purposeful play
More Reading Activities For Kids
purposeful play
more literacy fun for kids
View more word play fun from
The Measured Mom
The Measured Mom
Get inspired by the many simple yet purposeful ways to help children develop a rich literacy foundation
