Lizard Learners | Read With Me

In the dynamic landscape of primary education, early reading proficiency lays the foundation for academic success and lifelong learning. As a Phonics Lead in my primary school, I've witnessed first-hand the transformative power of phonics instruction in empowering young learners to unlock the world of literacy. At the heart of our efforts lies the Key Stage 1 Phonics Screening Test — a pivotal assessment that provides valuable insights into each child's reading journey and informs targeted support strategies to ensure no child is left behind. Designed to assess children's decoding and blending skills , the Phonics Screening Test serves as a diagnostic tool for teachers, enabling us to identify those who may require additional support in mastering phonetic principles. Administered in Year 1, this test offers a snapshot of each child's reading abilities and informs instructional planning tailored to their individual needs. For children who do not meet the expected standa

In the realm of early childhood education, few methodologies hold as much weight and promise as phonics. Phonics, the method of teaching reading and writing by correlating sounds with symbols , forms the bedrock upon which proficient literacy skills are built. At its core lies a simple yet profound principle: the recognition and manipulation of phonemes—the smallest units of sound in a language. Let's embark on a journey through the world of phonics, starting with six foundational phonemes: s, a, t, p, i, n . These seemingly humble sounds are the building blocks upon which countless words are constructed. Through understanding their significance and mastering their combinations, learners unlock the ability to decode and comprehend a vast array of written language. Sounding Out Success : Picture a young learner encountering the letters 's,' 'a,' 't,' 'p,' 'i,' and 'n' for the first time. With guidance, they learn to associate each symb

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a neurological condition that affects how individuals process and respond to sensory stimuli from their environment. While sensory experiences are typically integrated seamlessly by the brain, individuals with SPD may have difficulties in this regard, leading to sensory over-responsivity, under-responsivity, or seeking behaviours. This means that everyday sensations such as touch, sound, taste, smell, and sight can be perceived as overwhelming or even painful for those with SPD. As a result, individuals may exhibit a range of behaviours, including sensory avoidance, hyperactivity, meltdowns, or withdrawal , as they attempt to regulate their sensory input. Understanding and recognising SPD is crucial for providing appropriate support and accommodations for individuals affected by the condition. While Sensory Processing Disorder is not officially recognised as a standalone diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-

Dyslexia, a specific learning difficulty affecting reading and writing skills, often manifests in early childhood. Recognising the signs of dyslexia is crucial for early intervention and support. In this blog post, we'll explore how to spot dyslexia in young children using a checklist provided by the British Dyslexia Association. Additionally, we'll provide practical tips on how parents can support their child's reading development at home. Spotting Signs of Dyslexia: The British Dyslexia Association offers a comprehensive checklist to help parents and educators identify potential signs of dyslexia in young children. Here are some key indicators to look out for: Difficulty with Phonological Awareness: Struggles to recognise and manipulate individual sounds in words (phonemes). Difficulty with rhyming words or identifying syllables in spoken words. Challenges with blending sounds together to form words. Problems with Phonics: Difficulty associating letters with their corresp

Caring for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be deeply rewarding, but it also comes with its share of challenges. One common difficulty caregivers encounter is when a child with autism refuses help . Whether it's assistance with daily tasks, academic support, or therapeutic interventions, refusal can frustrate caregivers and hinder the child's progress . However, with patience, understanding, and creative strategies, it's possible to navigate these situations effectively. In this blog post, we'll explore practical tips and approaches to support children with autism who resist help. Understanding the Reasons Behind Refusal: Before addressing the issue of refusal, it's crucial to understand the underlying reasons behind the child's resistance. Some common factors that may contribute to refusal include: Sensory sensitivities : Children with autism may find certain types of assistance uncomfortable or overwhelming due to sensory sensitivities. For e

In the vibrant world of early education, laying the groundwork for English grammar is a thrilling adventure. Year 1 and 2, where children aged 6-7 embark on their linguistic voyage, mark the perfect juncture to introduce the basics of grammar . Among the foundational concepts lies the enigmatic realm of nouns – those elusive words that name people, places, and things . While the concept may seem daunting, with a sprinkle of fun activities, structured learning, and a touch of creativity, we can unravel the mystery of nouns and proper nouns and ignite a spark of curiosity in young minds. 1. Setting the Stage: Building Sentences and Exploring Words At the outset, we embark on a journey of sentence construction, where children learn to string words together to form coherent thoughts. Through interactive activities and collaborative exercises, we lay the foundation for understanding sentence structure and the role each word plays within it. Once children grasp the concept of sentences, we

Teaching a child with autism can present unique challenges, but with patience, understanding, and tailored strategies, it can also be an immensely rewarding experience. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a wide range of abilities and characteristics, making individualised approaches crucial for success. In this guide, we'll explore practical techniques to enhance handwriting, address difficulties with attention, manage emotional outbursts, foster friendships, and promote academic development in reading, comprehension, and mathematics. Improving Handwriting : Handwriting can be a significant area of difficulty for children with autism . To improve their handwriting skills, consider the following strategies: Use multisensory approaches : Incorporate activities that engage multiple senses, such as tracing letters in sand or shaving cream, using textured surfaces for writing, or practising with different writing tools like markers, pencils, and crayons. Break tasks into smalle