Build a Word

What you need:

• index cards 
• paper 
• pencil

What to do:

1. Using index cards, encourage your child to help you write the following letters or letter groups, one per card: at, an, ap, et, en, ell, it, in, ick, ot, op, ock, un, ut, ub, b, c, d, f, h, l, m, n, p, r, s, t, w. 
2. Show your child one letter-pair card, such as the "at" card. Then have her use the single-letter cards to make words with "at." Invite her to choose a card, place it in front of the "at," then try to sound out the word.
3. Help your child as needed by blending, or singing, the sounds together. If it is a real word, encourage your child to write the word on a sheet of paper. You can use the word lists you and your child create for reading practice. She might even enjoy illustrating the lists!

Learning benefits:

• develops understanding of the way letters and sounds combine to make words 
• encourages playing with words 
• provides practice with writing