How And Why To Use Crossword Puzzles To Enhance Kids' Learning
Posted on: 19 February 2021
As an adult, you may think of crossword puzzles purely as something you use for fun. However, for kids, doing a crossword puzzle can be about more than just having a good time. It can also be about learning. Here is a closer look at how crossword puzzles help your kids learn — along with some tips for helping your kids learn through crosswords.
How Crossword Puzzles Enhance Learning
Crossword puzzles can help a child learn about any subject. If the crossword uses words and clues related to astronomy, kids will learn about astronomy as they complete the puzzle. If the crossword uses clues related to plants, then kids will learn about plants.
However, crosswords also teach language skills. They help kids learn how to spell various words, and they also get to visualize how words come together. They can learn about syllables, unusual spellings, and word length/
How to Help Your Child Learn From Crossword Puzzles
Of course, you could just hand your child a crossword puzzle and say "go for it," but if you follow some of the tips below, you can help further enhance their learning and keep them engaged.
1. Choose crosswords on topics they are interested in.
At least the first few times you give your child a crossword to complete, make sure it's on a topic they are passionate about. This will keep them engaged in the puzzle. Also, they're likely to know more of the answers without having to think too hard, which will help them feel motivated and self-assured.
2. Give them hints, not answers.
Sometimes, your child is going to get stuck on a crossword question and be unable to come up with the answer on their own. When this happens, don't just give them the answer. Instead, give them an additional hint to make it easier for them to figure out what the answer is. This way, they will still get the thrill and mental exercise of figuring out the answer.
3. Let them set it down and come back to it.
Crossword puzzles can get frustrating, whether you're 12 or 42! So don't require your child to keep working on a puzzle for longer than they are comfortable. Let them sit it down, think through things, and come back to it. Setting the goal of completing one puzzle per week is a good starting point.
Hopefully you now have a better idea of how to use crosswords to enhance learning. They can be a great tool when used appropriately. Be on the lookout for educational crosswords for kids.
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