Phrasal Verbs for Kids: A Fun and Easy Guide
Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb and a preposition or adverb (or both) that create a new meaning. They are very common in English and can be tricky for young learners. This guide will help kids understand and use phrasal verbs correctly with clear explanations, examples, and fun exercises!
Why Learn Phrasal Verbs?
Phrasal verbs make English sound natural and are used in everyday conversations. Learning them early helps kids speak fluently and understand native speakers better.
Common Phrasal Verbs for Kids
1. Wake up
Meaning: To stop sleeping and become conscious.
- I wake up at 7 AM every day.
- The baby woke up crying.
- Don’t forget to wake up early for school!
2. Put on
Meaning: To wear clothes or accessories.
- She put on her jacket before going out.
- He put on his shoes quickly.
- Remember to put on your hat in the sun.
3. Turn off
Meaning: To stop a machine or light from working.
- Please turn off the TV before bed.
- Mom asked me to turn off the lights.
- Don’t forget to turn off the tap!
4. Pick up
Meaning: To lift or collect something.
- Can you pick up your toys, please?
- Dad will pick me up from school.
- She picked up the book from the floor.
5. Look after
Meaning: To take care of someone or something.
- My sister looks after our dog when we’re away.
- Can you look after my bag for a minute?
- Grandma looks after me when Mom is at work.
6. Run out
Meaning: To have no more of something left.
- We ran out of milk, so I went to the store.
- Her pen ran out of ink during the test.
- Don’t let the phone run out of battery!
7. Give back
Meaning: To return something to its owner.
- Please give back my pencil when you’re done.
- He gave back the book to the library.
- Always give back what you borrow.
8. Hang out
Meaning: To spend time relaxing or with friends.
- We love to hang out at the park.
- They hung out after school yesterday.
- Do you want to hang out this weekend?
9. Find out
Meaning: To discover or learn something.
- I found out that cats love fish.
- She found out her test score today.
- Let’s find out what’s inside the box!
10. Clean up
Meaning: To make a place tidy.
- It’s time to clean up your room.
- We cleaned up the classroom after the party.
- Mom asked us to clean up the kitchen.
Practice Exercises
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Choose the correct phrasal verb from the list to complete the sentences.
List: wake up, put on, turn off, pick up, look after
- Please _____ the lights when you leave the room.
- I _____ at 6:30 AM on school days.
- Can you _____ my little brother while I’m gone?
- She _____ her favorite dress for the party.
- Don’t forget to _____ your socks from the floor.
Exercise 2: Match the Phrasal Verb to Its Meaning
| Phrasal Verb | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Run out | To have no more left |
| Give back | To return something |
| Hang out | To spend time with friends |
| Find out | To discover something |
| Clean up | To make tidy |
Exercise 3: Create Your Own Sentences
Write a sentence using each of these phrasal verbs:
- Wake up
- Put on
- Turn off
- Pick up
- Look after
Keep practicing, and soon phrasal verbs will be easy and fun for you!