Q&A for How to Get a Child Ready for a Spelling Bee

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How can I calm the butterflies in my stomach?

Community Answer

Remember that you've already gotten this far, and if you don't win, you'll most likely be able to participate the next year. All of the other kids are probably just as nervous, especially if they're a first timer. Just don't stress too much about it!

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What should I say to my child if she loses?

Community Answer

You could first show that you acknowledged her effort for the event and her willingness to participate in the event. Then you could encourage her to practice for another opportunity like this one.

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Question

What if I mess up in front of all those people?

Community Answer

Don't be embarrassed -- you won't be the first or last spelling bee contestant to have that experience. You can't succeed if you don't take the risk to try. Be brave -- you can do it!

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If I don't win, will I get to do it next time?

Community Answer

If you keep practicing, you probably will.

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What if I’m scared and nervous and I don’t pass?

Donagan

Top Answerer

Almost everyone feels scared and nervous, so try not to worry too much about. If you don't pass, the sun will still come up the next day. Think of it as a good experience and a preparation for your next bee or some other competition.

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What happens if I freeze during the spelling bee?

Donagan

Top Answerer

Probably nothing. Just remind yourself that a spelling bee is not "life or death" and that it doesn't really matter whether or not your peers consider you a good speller. Relax and learn from the experience. Next time it'll be easier.

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What if you didn't hear the word?

Donagan

Top Answerer

Ask to have it repeated.

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I am going to a regional spelling bee, do I have to say dash, comma, or any other special characters?

Donagan

Top Answerer

It's not likely that you would be asked to spell a word containing a special character. If it were to happen, however, just name the character when you come to it in the spelling. It's possible (but again not likely) that you might encounter a word containing an apostrophe or a hyphen.

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