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Teaching Preschool Reading Skills: Tips for Teaching Your Little One to Read

Writer's picture: AGrader Learning CentreAGrader Learning Centre

Teaching Preschool Reading Skills: Tips for Teaching Your Little One to Read

Learning to read is one of the most exciting milestones for young children. As parents and educators, understanding how children learn to read can make this process enjoyable and effective. By fostering a love of reading and using creative strategies, you can lay the foundation for your child’s future success in reading and writing.


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Why Early Reading Matters


Many parents wonder, “When do children learn to read?” While every child develops at their own pace, introducing preschool reading skills early can give your child a head start. Early exposure to letters and sounds helps children develop critical language and cognitive skills. By nurturing their reading ability, you prepare them for a lifetime of learning and exploration.


Why Early Reading Matters

The Best Way to Teach Reading to Toddlers


Teaching toddlers to read can feel like a daunting task, but with the right strategies and a bit of creativity, it can be a joyful and rewarding experience. If your child is struggling to read, these engaging methods can help set them on the path to becoming confident readers.


1. Start with Phonemes: The Building Blocks of Reading


Kids become good readers by identifying and isolating sounds. Phonemes, the smallest units of sound in English, are the foundation of reading. Begin by introducing consonant and vowel sounds through playful interactions. For example:

  • /b/ for ball

  • /f/ for fish

  • /l/ for lamp

  • /w/ for water

  • /a/ for apple

  • /i/ for igloo


Incorporate these sounds into your daily conversations. For instance, say, “Wow, this is your book! /b/, /b/, book.” This method helps toddlers connect sounds to words in a natural and engaging way.


2. Blend Simple Words Together


Once your child is familiar with individual sounds, the next step is blending. Start with easy three-letter words that follow phonemic patterns, such as:

  • bat

  • van

  • bed

  • peg

  • wig

  • dug


Use letter cards or a small whiteboard to write these words and demonstrate how to blend the sounds. Encourage your toddler to join in, turning the activity into a fun game. For example, write ‘bat’ and say, “/b/, /a/, /t/, bat!” This interactive approach builds their confidence and reinforces their understanding of blending sounds.


3. Expand Vocabulary for Better Comprehension


A strong vocabulary is essential for understanding what is read. To ensure your child comprehends the words they’re learning to read, introduce diverse and engaging vocabulary. Share books and stories about topics that interest them, such as:

  • Outer space

  • Animals and their homes

  • Landmarks around the world

  • Different occupations


Non-fiction books are particularly helpful in broadening their vocabulary. When the content aligns with your child’s interests, their enthusiasm for learning increases, making it easier for them to grasp new words and concepts.


The Best Way to Teach Reading to Toddlers

4. Make Learning Active with Games


Learning how to read does not have to be passive. Incorporate games and activities to make the process enjoyable and memorable. Here are some ideas:


  • Magnetic Letters: Write sight words on one side of a board and let your child form these words using magnetic letters. Have them read the words aloud as they create them.

  • Sight Word Bingo: Say a sight word, and have your child find and cover the corresponding word on their bingo card. Celebrate with a fun reward when they achieve bingo.

  • Snap Blocks: Attach letter stickers to snap blocks and use them to build words. As your child assembles the blocks, help them sound out words and celebrate their effort, even if the spelling isn’t perfect.


5. Share Reading Experiences Together


Be involved in reading together. Your child is more likely to enjoy reading if you actively participate. When reading at home or at the library:


  • Talk about the pictures.

  • Discuss the actions of the characters.

  • Imagine alternate endings for the story.


Your involvement shows your child that reading is not just about decoding words but also about exploring ideas and having fun. The more you engage with the story, the more they’ll develop a genuine interest in reading.


6. Encouraging a Love of Reading


Fostering a love of reading in young children sets the stage for lifelong learning. Here’s how you can inspire this passion:


  • Read Aloud Daily: Sharing stories with your child not only improves their reading ability but also creates bonding moments. Choose books that align with their interests and encourage discussions about the story.

  • Create a Reading-Friendly Environment: Designate a cosy reading nook at home with a variety of books. Make trips to the library a regular activity.

  • Offer Choices: Let your child pick their favourite book to read together. This autonomy fosters enthusiasm.

  • Be a Role Model: Show your child that you value reading by letting them see you enjoying books.


Teaching preschool reading skills is an exciting journey that requires patience, creativity, and encouragement. By incorporating playful activities, choosing the right reading instruction methods, and fostering a love of reading, you can help your child build a strong foundation for future learning. Remember, the goal is not just for kids to learn to read, but for them to enjoy the process and discover the magic of books.


Encouraging a Love of Reading

Give your child the best start to their educational journey with AGrader K1-K2 Pre-primary Programme, designed to ensure a seamless transition to Primary 1. Each week, our pre-primary tuition lessons are carefully curated and meticulously planned to build a strong foundation in both English and Math. Supported by high-quality, in-house worksheets, spelling flashcards, and engaging ‘Giveables’ activities, our programme equips students with the skills and confidence they need to excel.


With experienced and qualified teachers, we provide the proper guidance and necessary exposure to prepare your child for the challenges ahead. Plus, all K1 and K2 students enjoy FREE access to our exclusive EverLoop Module, packed with additional resources to reinforce learning at no extra cost. Enrol your child today and set them on the path to success with AGrader!


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