How to Teach Children to Read Using Phonics
Reading is an important skill that your child must master. Most children learn to read proficiently by the end of first grade, but some children struggle. Teaching reading with phonics is simple; your child must learn the letters of the alphabet and the sound each letter makes. Spend time reading together each day and make reading time enjoyable to ensure your child's lifelong love of reading.
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Instructions
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Teach your child the alphabet by repetition. Children as young as 2 can begin learning and reciting letters. Sing the alphabet song at home, on walks and in the car. When your child starts singing along, begin singing a few letters and allow him to sing as much as he knows, then fill in the letters he doesn't know. With plenty of repetition and practice, your child will be able to sing the song himself.
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Purchase letter flashcards; ensure that you have both uppercase and lowercase letters.
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Teach your child the lowercase letters by sight first, as they are used more often than uppercase. Begin with the cards in alphabetical order and sing the song while pointing to the letters. Repeat this until your child can recognize the letters by sight, then shuffle the cards and go through them out of order.
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Teach the uppercase letters, using the same process as in Step 3.
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Explain that the letters also make sounds. Show the "a" flashcard and repeat the sound that "a" makes, followed by a word that begins with "a", such as apple: "aah, aah, apple." Remember to teach "see" and "kuh" sounds for "c", "guh" and "juh" for "j." Repeat with the entire alphabet until your child can repeat the sounds that each card makes.
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Teach your child to spell her name. Allow her to use what she knows about letter sounds to work it out on her own, if possible. Correct any mistakes she makes and teach her blending sounds if necessary, such as the "sh" sound for Sharon or a "th" sound for Beth.
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Purchase simple books, containing three- and four-letter words, or borrow some from the library. Allow your child to sound out the words and correct her when necessary. Read the same book several times until your child can do it flawlessly.
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Play phonics letter games. Ask your child to look around and find three objects that begin with the letter "a." Let her choose a letter, and look again. Play phonics games on the Internet at websites such as Starfall.com.
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Teach blend sounds, such as "pl," "bl," "sh," "th" and any others you can think of. Add books to your library that include these sounds when your child is ready.
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Write letters and words. Have your child write a letter to a friend or family member by sounding out the words. Phonetic spelling is appropriate to start; as your child improves, help him spell words correctly if needed.
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Tips & Warnings
Teaching a child to read takes patience.
Stop practicing when your child becomes irritable, tired or distracted.
Make reading an exciting, enjoyable activity.
Allow your child to choose the reading books.
Do not discipline your child for incorrect answers.
References
Resources
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