In the early stages, reading involves far more than simply recognising words on a page. It builds confidence, curiosity, and a growing sense of commitment. Each time your daughter begins to hear sounds, blend words, or recognise a familiar book, she is taking important steps towards becoming a fluent reader.
One of the most powerful ways you can support her on this journey is to simply keep going with all your reading together, even when she becomes a reader. This helps to maintain, develop and grow that love of stories and language, while also strengthening essential reading skills.
Alongside reading for enjoyment, phonics plays a vital role in learning to read. Phonics teaches children how sounds are used to form words, giving them the tools they need to decode text independently. As confidence with sounds grows, reading becomes more accessible and enjoyable.
To support you at home, we are sharing a short video that explains how phonics is taught at FHP and how you can support your daughter with her daily reading. This video can also be found on MySchoolPortal. Miss Thompson (Year 1 Class Teacher and Head of KS1) and Mrs Grossart (Reception Class Teacher and Head of EYFS) lead a workshop modelling the correct pronunciation of sounds, introducing key phonics vocabulary, sharing tips on what to do when your daughter gets stuck and exploring the difference between reading for skill and reading for pleasure.
