Phonics 101

What is Phonics?

Phonics is one of the five foundational pillars of reading. By definition, phonics is the method of teaching the relationship between the sounds of speech (spoken language) and alphabetical letters (written language).

Through effective phonics instruction, children learn how to read and write.

All children deserve the literacy skills they need to achieve success. Literacy is a powerful ability that equips us to learn, share ideas, understand important information, and navigate the world. All these skills are rooted in phonics.

Want to learn more about the wonders and methods of phonics? You’re in the right place. 

Learn Phonics

Supporting Diverse Learners in Phonics Instruction

Supporting Diverse Learners in Phonics Instruction

Every classroom contains a unique tapestry of learners, each bringing their own strengths, challenges, and experiences to the process of learning to read. As educators, we must ensure that systematic…

Evidence-Based Differentiation Strategies for Phonics Instruction

Evidence-Based Differentiation Strategies for Phonics Instruction

Teaching phonics effectively means reaching every student in your classroom, regardless of their reading level or learning style. While research clearly shows that systematic, explicit phonics instruction is essential, the…

Debunking Learning Style Myths: What Parents Need to Know

Debunking Learning Style Myths: What Parents Need to Know

If you’ve ever heard someone say, “I’m a visual learner” or “My child learns best by doing,” you’re familiar with the concept of learning style myths. While these ideas are…

Do Occupational Therapists Help with Reading?

Do Occupational Therapists Help with Reading?

If your child’s occupational therapist has suggested they can help with reading challenges, you might be wondering how OT fits into your child’s literacy journey. Perhaps you’ve noticed your child…

Phonics for Dyslexic Students: A Teacher’s Guide

Phonics for Dyslexic Students: A Teacher’s Guide

As educators, supporting students with dyslexia requires a deep understanding of evidence-based phonics instruction. Research consistently shows that systematic, explicit phonics instruction is not just helpful—it’s essential for dyslexic learners.…

Learn Phonics With Picture Books: A Guide for Preschool Teachers

Learn Phonics With Picture Books: A Guide for Preschool Teachers

Teaching phonics to young children can be both fun and effective when you incorporate picture books into your instruction. Picture books naturally engage preschoolers while providing countless opportunities to develop…

Fun Phonics Learning with Dog Man

Fun Phonics Learning with Dog Man

The Dog Man series by Dav Pilkey has captured the imagination of young readers worldwide. What many parents might not realize is that these entertaining books also offer excellent opportunities…

Developmental Spelling Patterns – Here’s How Kids Learn to Spell

Developmental Spelling Patterns – Here’s How Kids Learn to Spell

Just as children progress through stages when learning to walk and talk, they also move through distinct developmental phases when learning to spell. Understanding these patterns can help parents and…

The Reading-Writing Connection: A Research Review

The Reading-Writing Connection: A Research Review

The relationship between reading and writing instruction has undergone a significant transformation in American education over the past century. Historically, the reading-writing connection was overlooked, as these two fundamental literacy…

The Connection Between Phonics and Spelling: Building Both Skills Together

The Connection Between Phonics and Spelling: Building Both Skills Together

Learning to read and write are two sides of the same coin. While many parents and teachers might focus on phonics and spelling as separate skills, teaching them together can…