First Grade Phonics Tips: Take Time and Take Breaks

Reading aloud is hard work! When children are reading aloud to you, they’re trying to integrate several concepts: identifying letters, the sounds they represent, blending them into words, and making meaning. As much as possible, give children time to sound out words. If they start guessing based on the first letters, encourage them to slow down. Gently point out the letters they might have missed. Reading for 20 minutes a day doesn’t mean your child has to be reading aloud for 20 minutes straight. You can take turns reading aloud, talk about the illustrations or details of the story, and take breaks between sessions.