Teach Your Child Alphabet and Word Recognition
Simple Games that Introduce Children to Reading
Feb 28, 2009
Parental interaction has been shown to support learning development. Therefore, instead of relying on videos or electronic toys to teach alphabet and word recognition, consider playing simple games to teach these skills instead. The following games can be easily made at home.
Alphabet Games
Write letters of the alphabet on index cards or on cardboard. Alternately, cut out letters from cereal and cracker boxes. Ideally, have at least three sets of the full alphabet to play this game. Place the letters inside a bag or on the floor, letter side down, and then form words with your child using the letters that you pick. Practice phonics with your child by pronouncing each letter as you spell out the words you form.
Whenever you are out with your children, ask them to find letters of the alphabet. For example, write your shopping list in alphabetical order. If you have more than one child, break down the list according to how many children you have. Give each one a list and ask them to find each item on their list. As they look for each item, have them also recognize alternate products starting with the same letter.
Word Games
Using a set of index cards, create two separate sets of word cards. Write a verb on each card of one set and a noun on each card of the second set. Next, pick cards randomly, one from each pile, creating sentences using each card that is picked. Lastly, generate a verbal story using the sentences you have created.
Make a game to teach words that describe emotions. Take silly photos of family members with exaggerated expressions, paste each photo on an index card, and label each card with the emotion being expressed. For example, underneath a photo of yourself with a big smile, write the word “happy.” Ask your child questions and have him answer by pointing to the appropriate card. For example, you might ask, “How would you feel if you dropped your ice cream?”
Finally, one of the best ways to teach your child alphabet and word recognition skills is by reading to him. Ask your child to point to various letters as you read. Also before turning each page, ask your child what might happen next in the story.
“The bottom line, scientists say, is that no amount of teacher training, brain scans or curriculum research can trump the parent-child connection,” says Isolde Raftery in the February 3, 2009 Seattle Times article “Infants Learn Earlier than Thought.”
In conclusion, adding games into your daily routine is a simple and effective way to assist your child in learning alphabet and word recognition. While store bought board games are an excellent resource for teaching, these simple homemade games can be not only played together, but also made together.
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