Support for Pre-Readers
Our kids may need additional support when it comes to pre-reading. Laying a firm foundation is something any parent can do when they know the science of reading and its building blocks.
In my pre-reading post, I covered the first steps to reading: Vowel Sounds, Consonant sounds, CVC words.
But what if you want more support than that?
Ideas for Additional Support for Pre-Readers
Working with CV Blends
CV (Consonant vowel blends) are a way to build a bridge from sounds to CVC words. CV blends don’t traditionally include phonetic rules, but I find them helpful when combined.
General blends (ma, me, mi, mo mu) help cement the sounds in a way that gives your child instant recall instead of sounding out words slowly every time.
One more thing makes CV Blends super effective…
Learn the Funky Phonics Rules
I’ve never found cards or educational toys that cover qu (kwu) blending into another short vowel sound. I know it is practiced and taught, but it could be learned at a younger age as part of the traditional sounds taught.
Another important phonics rule - K goes before I and E, C goes with the other three (A,O,U) - is taught by rote, but rarely has toys or educational products made to address it.
Narration as a Habit
You can instill narration, or telling back, as a lovely habit. This habit will create open avenues of communication between you and your child.
This also helps your child learn to process what they’re taking in as they hear reading, and eventually, read.
Songs, Games, and Skill Building
Using fun tools like hands on activities makes a difference!
Flashcards and all can help, but be sure to implement your knowledge of funky phonics rules and possibly adapt some resources.
Use activities you like, and use them every other day. Begin a rotation of activities if you can so they don’t become stale.
I often consider these activities warm ups prior to more written style work.
Resources for Pre-reading support
My Texas Homeschool CV flashcards
My Texas Homeschool CVC flashcards
