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What Do You Say When...

If you spell words for your child they will be forever dependent on you to do that. Don't say that there is a right and a wrong way to write words while your child is in kindergarten. Spelling will evolve as words are encountered in reading. Encourage content (what your child is saying) and fluency at this early stage.

YOUR CHILD SAYS:

 

  • "I don't know how..."​

 

 

  • ​"How do you spell..."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • "I don't know how to use kindergarten spelling."

 

 

 

 

 

  • "What does this say?" (when they show you their kindergarten spelling)

 

 

  • "Does this really spell..."

 

 

  • "Can you read this?"

YOU SAY:
 

"Do the best you can..."

 

 

"Use your kindergarten spelling."

 

 

"Sound it out and write down some clues."

 

 

"Don't worry about correct spelling...just get those great ideas down first."

 

 

"What are you trying to say?"

 

"What sounds do you hear?"

 

 

"What do you want it so say?"

 

 

"It's close. Remember, the neat thing about kindergarten spelling is you're always right."

 

 

"You're giving me lots of clues."

"Read it to me, won't you?" (point out good clues) 

How to support early readers:

  • Read to your child for 15 minutes every day.
     

  • Let your child choose the story to be read.
     

  • Get a library card for your child and make frequent trips to your local library.
     

  • Let your child see you reading and writing at home.
     

  • Keep in mind that reading at home should be a relaxed and pleasurable experience. It's okay if your child does not want to read aloud to you. Make your time together enjoyable by reading to him/her.

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