Learning How To Read
Teaching a child how to read can be as enjoyable as it is challenging.To ensure the learning journey is as simple and effective as possible there are a number of steps you will need to follow.
Phonics is currently the recognised method of teaching reading in the UK.It is defined as knowing that the letters and the sounds they make have an association with each other.
Just like a jigsaw puzzle, as the child becomes confident witsingle letters they then become able to piece the letters together, understanding short words and phrases. Whilst on paper this process sounds simple it can be quite a challenge for the child.We all know that the alphabet is made up of twenty six letters, but are you aware that these letters make 44 different sounds? With so many sounds it becomes easy to understand why children are initially confused.
Reading with phonics
Understanding the various sounds a letter makes is the first part of the learning process.In example, the sound that the letter “c” makes in the word “cat” or “p” for “pig”.When this has been mastered the child begins to learn how the sounds change depending on the other letters within the word.For example, using the sounds that “ch” and “sh” make.At the end of the journey the child will be able to decode words, breaking them down and understanding the link the letters have with each other.
For many children, learning to read with phonics starts at school age However, if your child appears ready then you can start to teach phonics at home.There are lots of fun phonics books and worksheets you can use at home.Look out for brightly coloured books with the letters and sound printed in a bold typeface.As would be the case in school, give your child plenty of time to practice and understand. Don not rush them.
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