When your four-year-old knows the alphabet and shows an interest in language, he or she may be ready to read. You can teach this essential life skill at home, without expensive curriculum or a degree in early childhood education. You have already taught your child many life skills, such as dressing and using the toilet. Teaching your child to read simply takes time, patience, and an awareness of your child's readiness.
Teach the Basics
Step 1
Once your child can sing the alphabet song, he or she knows the names of the letters. Use alphabet flash cards to connect the name to the printed shape of the letters. Go through the cards and tell the child the name of each letter and trace it with your finger. Ask your child to repeat the name of the letter, then ask your child to name a few words that begin with that letter. Spread the cards on the table or floor and ask your child to pick up specific letters.
Step 2
Once your child can recognize the letters, teach the sounds that each letter makes. Continue to think of words that begin or end with each letter.
Step 3
Introduce blends. Blends are consonant sounds that appear together frequently, such as "bl" and "gr." Show your child how to make each sound independently first, then say the sounds faster until they blend. For example, to teach the "bl" blend, you would say "buh" "lll." Then repeat the two sounds a little faster until you say "bl" as in "blend."
Step 4
Remember to keep reading fun. Sing the alphabet song, make up silly stories, or read half a book and make up the ending together.
Help Your Child Read Independently
Step 1
Phonics readers are short, simple stories that focus on a single sound or reading skill. They come in a wide variety of sets that are themed to coincide with children's interests or are based on popular children's characters.
If possible allow your child to pick out their own set of readers. If they are interested in the readers, they will be more likely to practice reading on their own.
Step 2
Encourage your child to sound out each word. If she is getting frustrated, show her how to blend the letter sounds together, or explain the phonics rule that applies to that word. Unless the problem word is a sight word for which normal phonics rules do not apply, try not to simply tell her the word, because this does not help her figure out out for herself next time.
Reading this way is slow, so set aside plenty of time. If your child gets bored or frustrated, end the lesson by reading one of his or her favorite stories.
Step 3
Set aside 15 minutes per day as independent reading time. Try to schedule this for a naturally quiet time in the day, such as during a younger sibling's nap time or right before bedtime. Designate a comfortable place for reading time, such as in bed or in a special reading nook with pillows or cushions. Allow the child to choose a few books for this special time. They do not have to be phonics readers (although readers the child has mastered should certainly become part of his or her library).
Things You'll Need
- Picture books
- Alphabet flash cards—purchased or homemade
- Phonics readers
References
- "Phonics Pathways: Clear Steps to Easy Reading and Perfect Spelling;" Dolores G. Hiskes; 2005
- "The Ordinary Parent's Guide to Teaching Reading;" Jessie Wise and Sara Buffington; 2004
