Determine What Letters They Know

Be aware of the letters and letter sounds your child knows. This can be as simple as writing down the alphabet on a small piece of paper or a chart like this and making a check next to the letters your child shows they can recognize. Put a smiley face next to the letter if they can tell you the sound and a squiggly line if they know how to write it.

Start With Their Own Name

Names are the most meaningful words for children, so start with having your child learn the letters and sounds of their name. 

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Talk about the child’s letter, for example, “Look Mia! I see your letter M, mmmmmmm, on that sign that says “Motorcycles”. Then have learn names of their siblings and favorite friend.

ABCs Hunt

Search for a word with the letter “a” in it around the house, while driving in the car, or shopping at the grocery store. Try to find all 26 letters!

Say Sounds

Talk about the sounds that letters make. It can be a quick conversation, “Hey, what letter does the word “food” start with? F! What sound does “f” make? FFFffffff. What are other words that start with the “f” sound? Frog, forget, and four.

Chalk Letters

Using sidewalk chalk, write an uppercase letter and have your child write the lowercase matching letter. Have them tell you the sound it makes. Then switch for the next letter. 

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If they struggle to write the right letter, just show them how you write it and tell them it’s ok! Keep these games light and fun for your child; don’t show frustration or worry if they’re struggling. They’ll catch on as long as you keep practicing!

Trace It

Use a plate and pour some rice or cornmeal for kids to trace a letter with their finger, then say its name and sound. Gently shake the rice on the plate to “erase”. Make sure to show them the letter first, so they can copy the shape.

Bathtime

Have your child trace their first and last name in shaving cream. Spray shaving cream in the bathtub and have them spell names in the foam with their finger. Have them write their name and then your name. Show them how their name is written on a piece of paper so they can copy the letter shapes.