Research shows that for children to become enthusiastic, fluent readers, they need a firm grasp of phonics and the alphabetic code. That’s where phonological and phonemic awareness — the ability to identify and manipulate individual sounds in words — come into play.
Reading is not a task that comes naturally for most children. Instead, they need to be taught to read. They won’t learn simply by looking at books or listening to adults read (even though few things are more valuable in raising a lifelong reader than reading to them from birth on!).
Recognizing words easily is one of the first steps on the path to a love of reading and learning. And using phonics can help you get the ball rolling for your child!
The long weekend is upon us and families around the country are packing up — with a lot of excitement and just a little, well, anxiety. After all, traveling with kids can be as exhausting as it is exhilarating. “Are we there yet? More snacks please? Potty break!!”
We love the holidays! Not only do they offer us a chance to take time out from the hustle and bustle of school and parenting routines, but they also give us a chance to pause, take a deep breath, and give thanks for real quality time together.
