The Kids’ Club Rule for Spelling

Why is camp spelled with a C instead of a K? And why is kitchen spelled with a K? After all, both words start with the sound of /k/. Is it completely random, or is there a method to this madness? Fortunately, there is—and we call it the Kids’ Club Rule!

This spelling rule is an easy way to figure out when to use C and when to use K at the beginning of a word.

Check out the Kids’ Club Rule in this video and then read on for a sample lesson and a set of free printable spelling rule posters!

Why Do We Call It the Kids’ Club Rule?

The rule states that C says /s/ before E, I, and Y and /k/ before everything else. For the sound of /k/, try using a C first. If that doesn’t spell a real word, use a K.

The words kids and club are great examples of this rule, so we call it the “Kids’ Club Rule.” And after your kids learn this rule, they’ll be part of the club, too!

Tips and tricks like this one are taught throughout the All About Spelling program. Want to see more? Check out these free resources to see just how easy teaching these spelling rules can be.

Download All About Spelling Level 1, Lesson 16.

These Level 1 spelling lessons show how we teach the Kids’ Club Rule—when to use C and when to use K to spell the initial sound of /k/.

Watch as Linda demonstrates how to teach AAS Level 1, Lesson 16.

This video demonstration from Level 1 shows how we use letter tiles to teach important spelling rules like the Kids’ Club Rule.

Download our free Spelling Rules Posters.

This handy resource will help make learning three important spelling rules fun and easy to remember for your children.

Has the Kids’ Club Rule helped your child? I would love to hear about it in the comments below! And check out our other spelling rules, too!