Ages 2-4
Practice Four Literacy Skills Before Starting School
Children must learn the names and sounds of the ABCs. Once they understand the connection between letters and sounds, they can begin to combine letters to form words. This is the very foundation of reading! Here are a few language and literacy activities for toddlers ages 2 to 4.
Teach kids the ABCs
Teach the sounds letters make
Teach kids to write their name
Read together at least 3x a week
Sing the ABC Song
Sing the alphabet song together each morning when you’re getting your child dressed. Then have them sing it while pointing at each letter of the alphabet. Here is a free printable of the alphabet you can print out and use.
Start with Their Own Name
The most meaningful letters to your child are the ones they see in their own name. Write their name everywhere you can, such as on their drink cups and backpacks, or put the letters of their name on the wall of their bedroom. It’s important for them to see the letters of their name written often.
Guess My Letter
Tell your child a letter sound and have them guess the name of the letter that matches. “The letter I’m thinking of makes the “ssssss” sound. What letter is it?”
Point Out Letters
Point to individual letters you see on cereal boxes, signs at the store or while driving and ask them to tell you what they are. Then describe the letter shape: “That’s the letter ‘p’, it has a big line and a little curve.”
Watch Videos
Why is Letter Knowledge So Important?
Why talking about the letters we see all around us prepares our child to read
Everyday Moments You can Use to Teach Your Child the Alphabet
Reading Success Pathway
Want to Review the Letter Sounds?
Make the Most of Reading Together
Active Reading
Have you heard about the ABCs of Active Reading? Find a workshop and learn more!