Create simple flashcards with words and pictures, or use store-bought ones. Choose 10-15 age-appropriate words—animals, colors, actions, or objects kids encounter daily. Write the word on one side, draw or paste a picture on the other. For older kids, skip pictures and add definitions or use the word in a sentence.

Spread cards face-down in rows. Take turns flipping two cards, trying to match word to picture (or word to definition for older kids). When you find a match, say the word out loud and keep the pair. The player with the most pairs wins. This classic memory game makes vocabulary stick through repetition and fun competition.

Pick 3-5 word cards randomly and challenge your child to make the silliest sentence possible using those words. The goofier, the better! Examples: 'The purple elephant danced in my bedroom' or 'My teacher flies to school on a skateboard.' This reinforces vocabulary while sparking creativity and laughter—which helps words stick in memory.

Choose action words or any words that can be mimed. One person picks a card secretly and acts it out without speaking while others guess. Or everyone acts out the same word simultaneously and compare interpretations. Physical movement connects vocabulary to meaning in a powerful, memorable way—plus it gets wiggles out!

Go through the word cards one more time. Can your child read and define each word? Celebrate growth: 'You didn't know these words 20 minutes ago, and now look at you!' Put mastered words aside and focus future games on trickier ones. Make vocabulary practice a regular, fun routine rather than a one-time activity.