Phonics

[byag1]

Hi everyone. I have a 3 year old (3 years and 2 months) who won't start reception until 2025. The nursery she attends is really pushing phonics. They do it every morning which is of course fine.

The teacher at pick up asked me to practice at home with her as she said she's not sure how much she has grasped.

Tonight I spent an hour with her (in a fun way) trying to teach her the letter 'a' phonetically. I was surprised that she just didn't get it!! I would tell her and then ask her a minute later after we had sung a song about a for ants. And she had forgotten. This went on for 45 mins and I gave up.

I was surprised as she had fantastic language, was an early speaker and is sharp as button! Should I be worried?

Not sure why nursery is pushing it so much, dd’s nursery did it very causally.

Teachers know there will be huge ranges on ability in EYFS, so will ensure the phonics will work for all of them before they’re split into groups.

Also you have no idea if your chosen primary school will use the same phonics system as nursery (unless it’s attached to the school you’re choosing?) so I wouldn’t get too caught up on pushing. Just go through the sounds as and when.

I wouldn’t worry. I’m mainly concentrating on counting, developing pencil control, ability to focus, and being able to get dressed/undressed.

45 minutes is waaaaay too long for a phonics sessions with a 3 year old. 15 mins max, if they are engaged.

Fwiw, my son refused to participate in any phonics, or do any writing at nursery. When he started reception he hated reading and it was such a struggle to even do 2 sessions a week after school. In year 1 he was reading short chapter books.

I don't recommend pushing phonics at all.