Phonics is a method of teaching a child to read through learning an alphabetical code. The code consists of 44 individual sounds and symbols that teach a child to make a sound for specific symbols or groups of symbols – the alphabet.
There are many phonics programs in use by teachers and many programs that a parent can purchase for use at home. Each programme is based on the fundamental idea of the phonics code.
When a child begins to learn phonics, the words on the page that used to look like Greek to him, now start to have substance. He will begin to use the sounds to put words together and start reading simple books.
At this point, you should encourage your child to read often; at least 15 minutes every day. Additionally, exposing your child to books and many opportunities to read is vital to his success.
A child who gains a thorough understanding of phonics early on is likely to be more successful in school.
