Help strengthen phonetic sounds with flashcards. During second grade, children are completing their mastery of advanced phonics. Create flashcards on index cards to review letter blending sounds (i.e., /tr/, /thr/, /wr/ and /bl/).
Use the phonetic flashcards to play games. For example, have your child cut out pictures from magazines that begin with the letter blends on the cards (i.e., a picture of a blanket for /bl/). Lay all the pictures face up on the table and all the flashcards face down. Have your child select a flashcard, make the correct sound and find the corresponding picture. Use a timer to add more of a challenge.
Turn your child's weekly spelling list into flashcards. Allow your child to channel his creativity to create his own cards using the words, by providing him with markers, stickers and glitter. Review the flashcards daily for practice.
Give your child practice spelling tests using their weekly spelling lists. Reward him with small prizes or extra privileges when he earns improved scores.
Continue to read with your child. Enhancing sight-word vocabulary will positively effect spelling skills. Set aside time after school to read a book. Take turns reading to one another.