Teaching Kids to Read with Simple Daily Activities

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Teaching kids to read can be rewarding, but it also can be frustrating for some. Daily activities that blend in with the normal routine can be beneficial. This technique is especially helpful to reluctant learners. However, it can be used when teaching most kids how to read. As a former nanny and a current home school teacher and parent, I have taught plenty of kids how to read by using simple daily techniques.

Identifying Objects With Phonics

Whenever you hand your child an item, say the letter and sound it starts with, followed by the name. For instance, if you give your child a cup, you can say "C" then the sound, followed by "Cup. Here is your cup." This daily activity can set the foundation for reading comprehension.

Phonic House Walk

Using the daily activity mentioned above, walk around the house with your child. Point to and pick up objects, identifying them with phonics. Not only does this help with reading, spelling, language, and comprehension, but it familiarizes your child with the surroundings. If you label certain items with the corresponding word, it makes the phonic house walk even more effective.

Reading

Well, you may have expected this daily activity to be on the list. Nonetheless it needs to be included. Reading is essential when learning to read. Huh? That almost doesn't make sense. But of course, the parent will be the one reading at first. Point at the letters and read slowly, sounding out words, so that the child understands how you are reading. Ease into the child reading certain words onto complete sentences and entire books. Daily family reading circles are great for this technique.

Daily Phonics Games

Playing phonics and reading games daily also can help in teaching kids to read. These can be board games, computer games, or DIY games like Spelling Memory, Stop and Read, and Make This Sentence. Flash cards are also great for this and can be used in a traditional way or as part of a more detailed game. If you make up your own games, try to keep the rules simple and the game lighthearted and fun. This will help hold the child's interest.

Letter Writing Practice

Writing the letters daily can help kids further identify with the alphabet. It's especially helpful if the child is asked to state the letter's name and the sound it makes when writing it. The child can even copy words and sentences before knowing how to read. This action can increase understanding of the way words, sentences, and stories are formed. Comprehending that is an essential skill when it comes to reading.

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*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network