Compound Words for Kids
Fun and easy way to learn how two words combine to make one new word
What Are Compound Words?
Compound words are made by joining two smaller words together to create a new word with a new meaning. It's like putting two puzzle pieces together! For example, "sun" + "flower" = "sunflower." Learning compound words helps kids expand their vocabulary and understand how words work.
Types of Compound Words
Closed Compound Words
sunflower
sun + flower
butterfly
butter + fly
rainbow
rain + bow
football
foot + ball
Open Compound Words
ice cream
ice + cream
hot dog
hot + dog
post office
post + office
living room
living + room
Hyphenated Compound Words
well-known
well + known
up-to-date
up + to + date
self-control
self + control
mother-in-law
mother + in + law
Fun Examples for Kids
The butterfly landed on the sunflower.
I love eating ice cream on hot summer days.
The rainbow appeared after the rain stopped.
We play football in the backyard.
Fun Ways to Learn Compound Words
Word Building Game
Write words on cards and let kids match them to make compound words.
Picture Hunt
Look for compound words in books, magazines, and around the house.
Story Time
Create stories using as many compound words as possible.
Interactive Quiz for Kids
Can you make compound words from these word pairs?
sun + flower = ?
Show Answer
Answer: sunflower
butter + fly = ?
Show Answer
Answer: butterfly
rain + bow = ?
Show Answer
Answer: rainbow
Quick Reference
Fun Fact
Did you know? The word "butterfly" comes from the Old English words "butter" and "fly" - because people thought butterflies looked like flying butter!