Teaching a child to read is not as easy as it sounds! There is a definite order that should be followed in order to assure long term success in reading as your child gets older.
Let’s start with step 1: In order to understand phonics and word formation, a child must first know all letter sounds. Consonant sounds and short vowel sounds should be taught first.
- A says Ahh
- B says Buh
- C says Cuh
- D says Duh
- E says Ehhh
- F says Fuh
- G says Guh
- H says Huh
- I says Ihhh
- J says Juh
- K says Kuh
- L says Lll
- M says Mmm
- N says Nnn
- O says Ohhh
- P says Puh
- Q says Kwah
- R says Rrr
- S says Suh
- T says Tuh
- U says Uhhh
- V says Vuh
- W says Wuh
- X says Ks or says its name X
- Y says Yuh
- Z says Zuh
The easiest way to have your child quickly learn these sounds is to show him or her the letter as you name it. Here is an example of the type of flashcards to use to teach your child the alphabet and its sound. These large alphabet flash cards are perfect because they have both the capital and lowercase letters on one side with no picture shown until the card is flipped over. The corresponding phonic sound picture is on the back on the flashcard, so the child does not get distracted when memorizing letter shapes.
As demonstrated above, you should say the letter name and its sound first, and have your child repeat each letter and sound after you. For now, stay in alphabetical order. We will discuss in an upcoming step when to change the order.
Next: Step 2 … Long Vowel Sounds and Consonant Blends
TEACH YOUR CHILD TO READ! STEP 2: LONG VOWEL SOUNDS & CONSONANT BLENDS – My Brilliant Child
Here is the link to another great post we offer which teaches you how to have your toddler/child read a complete book in 30 days … 4 Steps to Teach Your Child to Read in 30 Days – My Brilliant Child
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