Move to the Words
Here's What To Do
1
Say short 2-4 word sentences with 1-2 syllables words e.g. “The boy ran.”
2
Say each word slowly as your child does a movement of their choice for each word. For example, they can hop or clap as you say each word.
3
Take turns saying sentences and suggesting movements.
4
To help your child understand that we can write spoken words, you can also write the sentences and point to the words while reading and moving.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Do a few stretches and movements together to help your child think of movements they might use.
E
Engage:
- “We can say, write and read words. I’ll say a sentence and you’ll move for every word you hear. Let me show you.”
- “What kind of movements should we do? Shall we try a new one now?”
E
Encourage:
- Move with your child as you say each word slowly.
- If they’re ready, they can then try to do it independently as you say the words.
R
Reflect:
- “What was your favorite sentence to move to?”
Not quite ready?
Say individual one-syllable words as you move together for each word. Then, build up to saying two-word phrases with one-syllable words e.g. “He smiles.”
Ready for more?
Use longer sentences with multisyllabic words.
As your child masters this skill...
They will demonstrate awareness of separate words in sentences.