How to teach reading to kids who can't read yet: Phonics vs. Sight Words

Reading is like a puzzle. If you give a kid a book and tell them to 'just read,' they will get frustrated and quit. You have to break the code for them. There are two main ways to do this: Phonics and Sight Words. You need both.

Step 1: Start with Phonics (The Sounds)

Don't teach the names of the letters yet. Teach the sounds. Instead of saying 'This is the letter B,' say 'This makes the /b/ sound.' Once they know the sounds for A, T, and S, they can suddenly read 'SAT.' That's a huge moment for a kid!

Step 2: Use Sight Words for the 'Rule Breakers'

English is a weird language. Words like 'the,' 'was,' and 'said' don't follow the rules. You can't sound them out. These are 'Sight Words.' Put them on a wall and have the kids memorize them just by looking at them. If they can recognize the 50 most common words by sight, they are already halfway to reading.

Step 3: Use 'Finger Reading'

When you read a story together, always point to the words with your finger. Have them do the same. This helps their brain connect the sound coming out of your mouth to the shapes on the page.

Step 4: Make it a Game

Use plastic letters in a tub of water. Say 'Find the /p/ sound!' and let them fish it out. If reading feels like a chore, they will hate it. If it feels like a game, they will beg for more.