Children Chatter Matters 

3. Improving word reading skills - Make a "phonics" spinner wheel. Whatever level your child is at, this activity will help your child to blend and segment words faster and more accurately for reading.

Below is a link to a spinning wheel I have created on the wheel of names website.

https://wheelofnames.com/ej2-zk8

You will note the focus is on reading words containing vowel digraphs; eg; oa, ea, ai, a-e.

You can create your own spinning wheel by adding your own words that focus on a particular letter pattern or sound. I have placed numbers next to each word so children can make a game out of the spinning wheel. If the child reads the word correctly and can put the word in a meaningful sentence, they are awarded those points. The person with the most points after 5 spins is the winner. I've also used blocks for added interest. You can gradually build a high tower with the number of blocks next to each word.

4. Improving word reading skills through card games. This following website has a series of free, downloadable playing cards that focus on various letter/sound patterns depending on what stage your child is at in their reading.

https://www.spelfabet.com.au/product-category/free-stuff/

With these cards you could play any number of games that you might usually play with a regular deck of cards; Memory, Fish, Old Maid and even UNO. Everyone just has to read the words on each turn.

Start by playing with the simplest sets of words with basic code then move to more complex sounds patterns with extended and advanced code (ai, ay, ea, igh).

You will note that the spelfabet website has many more fun phonics activities and resources for purchase. Check with your Speech Pathologist or teacher first before purchasing as you want to target the right skills for your child.