Action Words Flashcards

Simple verbs for growing learners

This set uses clear pictures and familiar action words that young children can see, say and act out. Younger children can point to a picture, copy the movement and repeat the word. Older preschoolers can name the action, use it in a short sentence or sort cards into actions they do indoors and outdoors. Keep the first sessions short and repeat favourite words often. You can pair this set with animal flashcards to make sentences such as, "The dog runs."

Ways to use the cards

At home, show one card at a time and ask your child to copy the action. Place two or three cards on the floor and call out a word for your child to touch or act out. In class, use the cards during circle time, movement breaks or a guessing game. Hide a card behind your back and reveal a small part of the picture while children guess the verb. Older children can choose a card and say, "I can jump" or "The girl is reading."

Helping children use action words correctly

Children often name the object in a picture instead of the action, saying "ball" rather than "throw". Point to the moving part of the picture and model the verb slowly. Some children may confuse similar words such as walk and run, or sit and stand. Act out both actions and ask, "What changed?" For older children, add the word is before the action, as in "He is jumping." Accept simple answers first, then gently repeat the fuller sentence.