How to Teach Your Child the Alphabet: Preschool Phonics at Home

If you've thought about giving your child a head-start in learning, but aren't sure how to do it, then this might help. In addition to introducing the alphabet with the "ABC" song, these techniques are designed to teach children the letters of the english alphabet (ABC's). Most importantly, practice is the key to learning anything new.

2 Principles For Teaching Young Children

1. Focus on one letter of the alphabet at a time

2. Keep learning time age appropriate: 1 minute of learning time per year (1 year
old = 1 minute session, 2 years old = 2 minute session, 3 years old = 3 minutes
and so on...)

These two principles are vital to a child succeeding. Overwhelming a child with information will not only frustrate them, but it will also hurt their self-esteem. Learning the alphabet should be fun, so keep it simple and pay attention to how much time has passed. Practicing for five minutes daily is much more effective than trying to keep a young child's attention a full hour once a week. Do not try to "cram in" learning time, be consistent!

The Procedure

1. Have the child trace one letter (written on paper) with index finger, a minimum of three times. The instructor will most likely need to assist in the beginning.
2. Have the child trace the same letter with a crayon, 3 times. Provide assistance when needed.
3. Use "The Magic Finger Technique." Draw the letter in the air, really big, at least three times. Your finger is "magic" because it can write letters in the air.
4. Have the child write the letter on paper, using a crayon (3 repetitions).
5. If Step 4 is a failed attempt, I recommend placing your hand over the child's to guide him/her in making the letter correctly. Do this until he/she gets the idea. Usually three repetitions is enough. Now try step 4 again.

Allow your child to draw pictures or write letters using a crayon, whenever they ask. Provide them with a notebook for practice and play. They will enjoy trying to do what grown-ups do. It is vital to capitalize on their interests.

Provide an appropriate place, such as your dining room table, for learning and writing. Teaching a child how and when to use writing utensils (in the early years) will make it much easier to continue successfully as they get older. Teach the letters of the alphabet (ABC's) before entering school, and this will improve your child's educational performance.

It is very important to keep learning time brief and fun in the early years. If parents are enthusiastic about learning (ABC's, or any other subject matter), then the child will sense this and become just as excited. Parents really are their child's first teacher. Take advantage of this time of curiosity and wonder.