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

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

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

Reading is a foundational skill that forms the cornerstone of academic success and lifelong learning. In the bustling environment of a school day, opportunities for reading practice abound, presenting numerous chances for children to hone their literacy skills and gain confidence in their abilities. Today, let's explore the various opportunities woven into the fabric of a school day where reading can be practiced and celebrated. 1. Morning Assembly: Setting the Stage for Reading Success The school day often begins with a morning assembly, where students gather to kickstart their day. This serves as an ideal opportunity to incorporate reading practice by having students read aloud announcements, share interesting facts, or even recite poems or short passages. Engaging in reading activities from the outset fosters a positive attitude towards reading and sets the tone for the day ahead. 2. Reading Aloud: Bringing Learning Objectives to Life As educators, one of our prim

As educators and parents, we understand the significance of good handwriting in a child's academic journey. Year 1 and 2 are pivotal years for developing foundational handwriting skills that lay the groundwork for future academic success. Today, let's delve into effective techniques for fostering neat penmanship during these critical years, emphasising correct pencil grip, the utilisation of a specialised handwriting book, and the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. 1. Mastering the Basics: Correct Pencil Grip Before delving into letter formation, it's essential to ensure that children have mastered the correct pencil grip. Encouraging the tripod grip—where the pencil is held between the thumb and index finger while resting on the middle finger—provides stability and control, facilitating smoother and more precise handwriting movements. 2. Utilising a Handwriting Book: Visual Aid for Letter Placement In our efforts to promote neat handwriting,

As educators, we're constantly seeking innovative ways to engage our students and foster a love of learning. One such approach that has truly transformed our school experience is taking reading outside . With the recent introduction of our outdoor classroom , inspired by the principles of Forest School , we've discovered a wealth of benefits for both our pupils and staff. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the importance of outdoor learning became increasingly evident. Not only does it provide a safer environment for social distancing, but it also offers countless opportunities for hands-on exploration and connection with nature . As we immerse ourselves in the outdoor setting, we've found that it not only benefits our physical health but also enhances our mental well-being. One of the most exciting aspects of taking reading outside is the ability to bring stories to life in a whole new way. Recently, while reading "The Baker's Boy" by Tony Br

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding time for reading at home can sometimes feel like a challenge, especially after a long day at school when children are tired and tempted by screens. However, with the right approach and consistency, setting reading routines can become a rewarding and enjoyable part of family life. Let's explore how to establish and maintain reading habits at home, even when faced with distractions and tiredness. 1. Consistency is Key : Consistency is crucial when it comes to establishing reading routines. Choose a specific time every evening dedicated to reading , and stick to it. Whether it's 6 o'clock for younger children or 7 o'clock for older ones, having a set reading time helps create structure and predictability, making it easier for children to transition from their busy day to a calmer evening routine. 2. Create a Reading Environment : Set the stage for reading success by creating a cosy and inviting reading environment at home.