Phonics to Reading Phase 1 (Ages 3-6)

This class will help your child learn to read and say the sound of each letter of the alphabet. Learning letter sounds (instead of the names of the letters) is a really important step on the way to learning to read. For example, instead of saying 'bee' for the letter 'b', we want children to say the sound at the start of the word 'ball.' This means that, in the future, they can use them to build words like 'cat' and 'sand'. I love teaching phonics, and it is so exciting to help children start their reading journey. Because we know young children learn best when they are actively involved (and having fun!) I use a range of engaging activities that will encourage your child to look and listen really carefully. My methods include learning actions for the letters whilst saying the sound, racing to find a letter card that shows the sound that an object begins with, playing snap, and writing a letter in the air with our hands, feet, or maybe even our noses! There will be two twenty-five minute lessons each week.

• Week 1 - s, a, t, p
• Week 2 - i, n, m, d
• Week 3 - g, o, c, k
• Week 4 - Revision, e,u
• Week 5 - ck (digraph),r,h
• Week 6 - b,f,ff (digraph),l
• Week 7 - ll,ss (digraphs), Revision session
• Week 8 - j, v, w, x
• Week 9 - y, z, zz, qu
• Week 10 - Revision session

At the start of each lesson we will briefly revise the letter sounds we have already learnt. We will also have a go at blending letters together to make words, for example 'c - a - t' to make 'cat'. In the beginning this can be a tricky concept for children to understand, so don't worry if your child finds this difficult If your child has any additional needs, please let me know in advance so I can do my best to accommodate them. Instructor Profile: My name is Helena, and I live in the UK. I am a primary school teacher with over 25 years experience working with children aged 3-11. I have worked with schools and nurseries as an Early Years expert to raise standards in education for children aged 0-5 years. Alongside this, I am a private tutor, and I also work online as a TEFL teacher (Teaching English as a Foreign Language). This means I know lots about child development and how children learn best. I have loads of patience, enthusiasm and positivity which I look forward to sharing with your child. I make sure my lessons are carefully structured so your child can get the most out of each session, but I also make sure each lesson is fun and engaging - I want your child to feel great about themselves and what they can achieve. Learning is exciting! I have a BA Hons in English Literature (2.1) from Southampton University, and a PGCE (teaching qualification) from Leicester University. I also have an MA in Creative Writing (distinction) from Birmingham City University, and have recently completed a 160 hour TEFL qualification. I look forward to seeing your child in class soon!