Making CVC words is the first step in blending phonetic sounds. This Melissa & Doug product is great because it makes sounding-out CVC words fun and easy.

Using real life objects or toys for practising initial sounds is always a good idea. Children will love hunting for objects that match the initial sounds they are learning. 

Use a 'Magic e’ spelling wheel to show how this spelling magic works! A silent ‘e’ at the end of words makes the vowel say its own name, changing the vowel sound from short to long.

Recognising and matching initial sounds is fun with this magnetic alphabet phonics activity. See if your child can match each picture to the right letter. Use a mix of upper and lower case letters for an extra challenge.

Finding fun ways to practise high frequency words is a challenge! By using a tally chart, you can combine literacy and maths practice at the same time.

Double consonants can be very tricky to master. It is easy for children to forget that there are double letters as they only hear one sound. Use household items to spot double letters hiding in words.