Learning to read is the most important skill a child gains in the early years of school, and in England most schools teach it through phonics. If you are a parent, understanding how phonics works helps you support your child at home with confidence. This guide explains the approach, the Year 1 phonics check and practical ways to help.
What is phonics?
English spelling is complicated, but it follows patterns. In systematic synthetic phonics, children are taught:
- the sounds (phonemes) in the language and the letters or letter groups (graphemes) that represent them, in a set order;
- to blend sounds together to read a word, for example c-a-t becomes "cat";
- to segment words into sounds to help with spelling;
- "tricky words" that do not follow the usual patterns, such as "the" and "said".
Schools typically use a published scheme, so it is worth asking which one your child's school follows so that you use the same terms and sounds at home.
The Year 1 phonics screening check
In June, Year 1 children read a list of 40 words, some real and some made-up "nonsense" words, one-to-one with a teacher. The nonsense words check that children can decode rather than rely on memory. There is a standard threshold, published each year, and it has usually been 32 out of 40. Children who do not meet it get extra support and usually retake the check in Year 2.
The check is not a pass or fail for the child. It helps schools spot children who need more help with reading early.
How to help at home
Read to your child every day. Share stories, rhymes and non-fiction, and enjoy the conversation. Hearing language builds vocabulary and a love of books.
Listen to your child read. Let them sound out words and blend, and be patient. If they get stuck, prompt them to use the sounds rather than guessing from pictures.
Use the right sounds. Say sounds pure, for example "mmm" rather than "muh". Ask the school for a pronunciation guide if you are unsure.
Play with sounds. Rhyming games, "I spy" and clapping syllables all build the awareness of sounds that supports reading.
Practise tricky words in short bursts, using flash cards or games.
Keep it short and positive. Five to ten minutes of relaxed reading is better than a long, tense session.
If your child is finding it hard
Children learn to read at different speeds, and some need more time. If you are worried:
- Talk to the class teacher. Ask what they have noticed and what support is in place.
- Ask about interventions such as small-group phonics catch-up.
- Check hearing and eyesight if you have concerns.
- Keep reading together for enjoyment, whatever level the child is at.
If difficulties persist, ask the school's special educational needs coordinator about further support.
Beyond phonics
Phonics gets children started. As they grow, comprehension, vocabulary and a love of reading take over. Keep reading together even when your child can read alone, and talk about the stories. These habits support everything from KS2 SATs to GCSE English.
Getting extra help
Our primary tutors support reading, writing and maths, matched to your child. Learn more about private tutoring, and read signs your child may need extra help. If you are thinking about starting school, see what to expect when your child starts Reception.
