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Once a child has begun to learn the alphabet they need to move on to the sounds each letter makes. This is a pretty easy process and can be a lot of fun for everyone involved.

Teaching phonics can begin with reading a simple book to your child. As you read the words sound them out. Say them slowly and enunciate each different letter sound within the word. At first your child will think it is pretty funny, but before you know it they will be reading those words back to you the same way.

Another way to teach phonics is by utilizing flash cards. There are flash cards that show a letter and a word associated with that letter. By sounding out the word or words the children learn the difference in how a long I or a short I may sound. Create your own flash cards on poster board. Place the letter at the top both in lower and upper case. Then write a word such as Mom but place a dash between each letter, M-O-M. As you say the word sound out each letter and point to the letter so they know the sound each one makes.

Try teaching your child by word association. For instance, if you are trying to teach them the difference between the words diner and dinner, open a book or magazine and show them what a diner is then take them to the table and explain what dinner is all about. Write the words down for them so they can distinguish the difference between not only the word and it’s meaning but also how the letter “I” can make the different sounds to create the word.

Teaching your children phonics doesn’t have to be a chore. It can be fun and exciting for both you and your child. As you go through your day make it a point to sound out words once in awhile in your conversations and ask the children to follow along. Enjoy it with your children and they will pick up on it before you know it.

Submitted by Christmas Fun

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