Here are some fun and different ways to practice word work outside of school.

* Use old magazines, newspapers, mail, etc. to find particular words.

* Take a note pad, write a certain word, then have your child ask questions until they can guess what the word is. Once the word is guessed, have students spell the word. Then switch roles.

* Chose a word and begin drawing on paper what represents the word. Your child will guess what word you are trying to describe. Then have your child spell the correct word and switch roles. (A simple version of Pictionary)

* Chose a word that follows the particular rule and act it out. Have your child guess which word you are thinking of, spell it correctly and then switch roles. (Charades)

* While you are in the car, see how many words or letter combinations that you see on billboards, signs, license plates, etc. that follow certain word work rules. Make it a fun competiton and they will love it!

* On scrap paper, play Hangman with your child. They love playing this at school!