The world of phonics! If you are new this then it can feel very overwhelming in getting your head around this subject and really understanding it! Especially if you are wanting to try and help your child at home!

Hopefully this page will provide you knowledge and support to develop your understanding as a parent! But please remember we are available to ask in person if there is anything you want clarity on or further understanding of!

In a Nutshell…

The alphabet contains only 26 letters. Spoken English uses about 44 sounds (phonemes). These phonemes are represented by letters (graphemes). In other words, a sound can be represented by a letter (e.g. ‘s’ or ‘h’) or a group of letters (e.g. ‘th’ or ‘ay’). See the phonic glossary below for more info on the terms!

Once children begin learning sounds, they are used  quickly  to  read  and  spell  words. These skills are built on from Reception to Year 2 and beyond in order to help children read and write.

There are different sets of phonics that different year groups and abilities work through (see progression of phonics for more info).

But most importantly…

Children have to build and develop lots listening and attention skills that enable them to hear sounds in words before learning what they look like! There is so much early reading done with our ears first, before our eyes! Please look at this document below which explains the process from the beginning.