Lizard Learners | Read With Me

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-...

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 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. ...

Reading is often hailed as one of the most fundamental skills a child can acquire. It opens doors to knowledge, imagination, and understanding. But what many of us fail to realise is the Herculean effort it takes for young minds to decode the written word. As educators, parents, or mentors, we're familiar with the process of teaching children to read. We introduce them to phonics , guide them through letter-sound associations, and watch with pride as they slowly string together words. However, amidst this journey, it's easy to overlook the immense cognitive effort it demands from our young learners. Imagine this: a child encounters a simple sentence. To us, it may seem straightforward, almost effortless. But for the child, it's a mental marathon. Their brain must swiftly decipher each letter, associate it with its corresponding sound, blend those sounds together, and finally recognise the word. And this process repeats for every word in the sentence. It's akin to solvi...

Reading with children under the age of three might seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. In fact, it can be an incredibly enjoyable and rewarding experience for both the child and the caregiver. One of the most effective ways to engage young children in reading is through interactive and playful books. These books not only capture their attention but also stimulate their senses and imagination. In this blog, we'll explore the importance of interactive reading and share some tips on how to make the most of it with your little one. The Importance of Interactive Reading : Interactive reading goes beyond simply reading the words on the page. It involves engaging the child in the story through various activities such as touching, pointing, and making sounds . This type of reading helps develop crucial early literacy skills, including vocabulary, language comprehension, and phonemic awareness . Furthermore, interactive reading fosters a love for books and reading fro...

Learning to read can be an exciting journey for children, especially when it involves fun and engaging activities. By incorporating games into your child's reading routine, you can help them build essential literacy skills while having a blast. In this blog post, we'll explore five games that are not only enjoyable but also educational, designed to promote reading comprehension, vocabulary, and phonics. Word Bingo : Bingo is a classic game that can be easily adapted to help kids learn to read. Create bingo cards with sight words or vocabulary words your child is learning. As you call out the words, your child can mark them on their card. The first to get a bingo wins a small prize or gets to pick the next game. Sight Word / Tricky Word Memory : This game is a variation of the classic memory game. Create pairs of cards, with each pair containing a sight word your child is learning. Mix up the cards, then lay them out face down. Your child will take turns flipping over two car...

Fellow parents! As we sail through the waters of parenthood, we encounter many challenges, especially when it comes to helping our children learn to read. Today, let's talk about some common reading challenges , such as dyslexia, ADHD , and more, and how to navigate them with grace and confidence. Dyslexia: The Great Reading Storm Dyslexia is a common reading disorder that affects the way the brain processes written and spoken language. Children with dyslexia may struggle with reading, spelling, and writing , despite having normal intelligence. As parents, it's important to recognise the signs of dyslexia and seek help if needed. There are many resources and interventions available, such as specialised reading programs and assistive technology , that can help children with dyslexia thrive. ADHD: The Wandering Wind ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder , can also present challenges when it comes to learning to read. Children with ADHD may have difficulty focusing...

Choosing the right reading curriculum for your child can be overwhelming. With so many options available, it's easy to feel lost in a sea of choices. In this blog post, we'll explore some tips and strategies to help you navigate the world of reading curriculum and find what's best for your child. Know Your Child's Learning Style : Before diving into the world of reading curriculum, it's important to understand your child's learning style. Some children thrive with hands-on activities and visual aids , while others do best with a more traditional approach. Take some time to observe how your child learns best and keep this in mind as you explore different curriculum options. Research Different Approaches : There are many different approaches to teaching reading, from phonics-based programs to whole-language approaches . Take some time to research the different approaches and consider what aligns best with your child's learning style and needs. Consider Yo...

Language is a fundamental aspect of human communication and development. But have you ever wondered how children learn languages? In this blog post, we'll explore the fascinating science behind how children acquire language and the important role it plays in their cognitive and social development. The Stages of Language Acquisition : Language acquisition in children occurs in several stages, beginning with prelinguistic communication during the first year of life. During this time, infants use cries, babbling, and gestures to communicate their needs and emotions. As they grow, children begin to understand words and phrases, and their vocabulary expands rapidly . By the age of two, most children can form simple sentences and engage in basic conversations . Over time, their language skills continue to develop, and they become proficient communicators. The Role of Input : One of the key factors in language acquisition is input—the language exposure that children receive from their ...