From what age should children start using dictionaries?

Question

I mean not picture dictionaries but ordinary dictionaries to check out unknown words.

Answer 1

when they are six or seven so they are confident with reading independently or want to read independantly

Answer 2

As soon as they are able to recognize letters and understand that letters are the building blocks of words.  When they first start writing, using their own spellings is fine.  They are using the sounds that they hear to help them express their words in writing, but soon they understand that words aren't always spelled exactly the way they sound.  That's when they need to know how to use a dictionary to help them find the correct spellings.  I think around age 6 is probably appropriate for most children.

Answer 3

There are levels of dictionaries to match levels of development.  For example, the picture dictionary you mention, a primary dictionary for about first grade (still has some pictures, larger print, simple definitions, etc.) intermediate, up to college and unabridged.  So, yes, when they begin reading and the need arises.

Answer 4

whenever they are able to read

Answer 5

As far as Im concern, children shuld be introduced to dictionaries in an early age itself..No, im not talking about picture dictionaries..However there are ordinary dictionaries which are written especially for children so its easier for them to understand. Therefore, you can start introducing children aged 5 to dictionaries...Any age younger than 5 might find dictionaries boring and might lose th interst in reading itself.. :)

Answer 6

As soon as they can read, although I think the picture types are a good introduction. I was taught to read at age three by my father and i recall receiving, with great excitement, a dictionary as a Christmas present, but only when I was aged six. It certainly helped me to progress quickly.

Answer 7

i started using a pic dictionary at 3 and a real dictionary at 5 so about 5 or 6 b/c i learned 2 read at a REALLY early age!

:)