📎 Website: https://www.starfall.com/h/abcs/

Starfall uses pictures, songs, and games to help children hear and practice letter sounds in a fun way.

Phonics helps children learn how letters and letter groups match the sounds in spoken words. This is what helps them sound out and read new words. Teachers can use trays or pocket charts with small objects (like apple, ball, cup) and have children match them to the beginning letter. They can also use magnetic letters or letter tiles to build simple words like “cat” or “hop.” To support different needs, teachers can use large textured letters, sound cards, or small-group work. At home, families can find foods in the kitchen that start with the same sound (like “banana,” “butter,” “bread”) and place them on the table together as a “sound snack.” While shopping or on a walk, children can also look for letters on signs and say the sounds.
📎 Website: https://www.teachyourmonstertoread.com/
This website turns phonics into a game where kids build skills step-by-step while playing.

Vocabulary means knowing and using words. A strong vocabulary helps children understand what they read and communicate their thoughts clearly. Teachers can pause during read-alouds to introduce new words, show a picture, and explain the meaning (like “gigantic” in a story about animals). They can also do a describing game where children guess an item from clues (e.g., “I’m thinking of something that’s round, red, and grows on trees”—apple). For children with speech or language needs, teachers can use real items, photos, or role play. At home, families can talk about new words while cooking together—for example, naming tools and ingredients: “This is a whisk. We use it to mix things fast.” On nature walks, families can describe what they see: “That squirrel is climbing. Climbing means going up.”
📎 Website: https://www.readingrockets.org/strategies/vocabulary
Reading Rockets offers real tips and games to help children learn and use new words at home.