How to Play Flash Cards

Turn flashcards into a game to help kids learn.

Flashcards can help increase your child's knowledge and confidence. If your child is not excited about using flash cards, consider making a game to make it more interesting. Timing and keeping score while using the flashcards can turn homework or study time into playtime. You can even have the child make the cards using index cards and markers. Having the child take an active role in education can make learning seem like less of a chore.

Things You'll Need

• Flashcards
• Timer
• Paper
• Pencil

Instructions

1. Shuffle the flashcards. Make sure they are all facing the same way.

2. Set the timer for 60 seconds.

3. Flash the cards for the child to read. Make sure you are holding them at a level and distance that allows the child to read each card.

4. Set the ones answered correctly in one stack and the ones answered incorrectly are placed in another stack. (Use the flashcards that were incorrectly answered if you run out of cards before the 60 seconds.)

5. Mark down on the paper how many cards the child answers correctly.

6. Reset the timer and encourage the child to beat his or her score.

References

• International Parenting Association: Beginning Word Cards
• Bucks County Community College: Using Flash Cards as a Study Skill