When do children start to recognize beginning sight words?
Children actually begin recognizing beginning sight words early on. As young children start to discover print language, they become fascinated with words. They often want to be shown over and over how to write their name and other beginning sight words that are particularly important to them. This is a great thing to capitalize on!
Write your child's name on several items or
papers. Show him or her that the name is the same.- Talk about the first letter and highlight it so that stands out.
- Point out the first letter from your child's name in other words that you find in your environment.
Below are some ways we can help children to start to recognize and remember some beginning sight words in the environment.
- Show the child the logos from some favorite places.
- Make a book of logos. You can often get the exact logos from restaurants and stores by requesting a bag, napkin, etc. with the logo printed on it. These can be cut apart and used to make a fun book of places your child loves to go.
- Make a book of family members or friends pictures with their names.
- Make a book of favorites--toys, animals, places, etc. Draw, photograph, or use cut-out pictures, then label each with its name.
For young babies:
Young babies are not ready to learn to read words. They need to work on oral language development. However, through reading books with young babies and surrounding them with accessible examples of print language, they will soon become ready and eager to learn words.
To see all of the skills in the awareness and exploration stage, click on the links below:
Letters and Sounds
Beginning Writing
Vocabulary and Oral Language
Concepts About Print
Phonological Awareness
