Letter Sounds in Our Names
Here's What To Do
Whenever you see or write a name with your child, highlight some of the letters and the corresponding sounds in the name.
You can start by pointing out the first letter and the sound it makes. (If the name starts with a sound like “ch” or “th” you can gently introduce the sound they make together without expecting your child to know it – these are called digraphs and they’re harder to learn).
Then, over time, point out and identify all of the letters and sounds in the name.
Your child can then take the lead in pointing out familiar letters and sounds!
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Make a simple sign or poster with some of your families’ names on it. Now sit near it and settle in when you’re ready to play this game.
Engage:
- “I see Belinda’s name! Belinda’s name starts with ‘B.’ ‘B’ makes the ‘b’ sound. B-b-Belinda!”
- “What letter does your name start with? What sound does it make?”
Encourage:
- Your child can repeat the letter and its sound after you.
- Start by focusing on a few familiar letters and sounds so your child can develop confidence in noticing them in names and words.
Reflect:
- “What name should we write or read next?”
Not quite ready?
Select one or two letters and their sounds to point out when you see them. Your child will become familiar with them over time. Then, you can introduce others.
Ready for more?
Say a sound and ask your child to point to or name the corresponding letter.
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to provide letter sounds for some letters.