Start with the sounds your learner knows
Choose three or four words made from letters your child has already learned. For a first practice, try sat, mat, and map. Say each word naturally and check that its meaning is familiar. A child who can name letters may still need practice saying the sounds those letters represent.
A simple practice routine
- Listen. Say “sat” and ask your child to repeat it. Model the three sounds without adding an extra “uh” to the consonants.
- Look. Place s, a, and t in order. Point from left to right as you connect the sounds.
- Read. Say the whole word together. Then let your child try it without your voice.
- Change. Replace s with m. Read mat. Then replace t with p and read map.
- Write. Say one of the words and ask your child to write its letters. Check each sound together.
Choose a small next step
If a word is difficult, reduce the number of choices and model it again. If the word is easy, try another word with the same vowel before mixing vowels. Keep the session short enough that your learner can stay attentive. There is no timer or pass mark on this site.
Kindergarten, preschool, or first grade?
Use the words that fit the learner's current letter-sound knowledge. A grade label does not tell you which words a particular child can read. Older beginners can use the same word lists with activities and presentation that suit their age.
Use pictures after looking at the letters
Picture cards can introduce a word's meaning. During reading practice, cover the picture first, ask the learner to read the printed word, and then reveal the picture to check meaning. If the child guesses from the picture, return attention to the letters.