Building a word helps a child connect the sounds they hear with the letters that represent them. This can support both reading and spelling when it uses patterns the child has already been taught.

Prepare a small set

Ask school which sound–spelling pattern to practise. Choose three to five words containing it and use letter tiles, magnetic letters or small paper cards.

For a pattern such as ai, you might use rain, tail and paint.

Build and read each word

1. Say the word normally.

2. Stretch it gently so the sounds can be heard.

3. Ask your child to choose the letters for each sound.

4. Move the letters together.

5. Blend the sounds and read the complete word.

6. Mix the letters and build it once more if useful.

Model the first word. Complete the second together, then let your child try with less help.

Remember that a single sound may use more than one letter. Follow the terms and pronunciation used by school. Many school phonics programmes have short free videos for parents showing how each sound is said, so ask which one your child’s school uses.

Keep it manageable

Work for about five minutes and stop on a successful word. Use the same small set again before adding new words.

Avoid asking the child to guess from the first letter, introducing an untaught pattern or continuing after concentration has dropped. If the activity remains very difficult, tell school what happened so the practice can be adjusted.