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Alphabets are the first thing that children learn about the English language. Once they are familiar with the alphabets, they can go on to identifying new words. To teach a child letters of the English alphabet thus becomes a task of primary importance.
Being kids as they are, teaching them anything requires a lot of patience. Along with that, however, it is also very important that their teaching is done in a manner that generates curiosity in their mind. It is also important to nourish their inquisitive nature as this is very important for a child’s development.
What are the best ways to teach a child letters of the English alphabet? Let us look at some of the most effective methods that are widely used in schools and by educators.
Repetition
A child learns fastest when the lessons that are taught to him are repeated at regular intervals. When you are teaching your child the letters of the alphabet, revise what they have learnt every now and then. This will keep the lessons fresh in their minds, which will enable them to recollect what they have learnt easily.
Word Association
Another method that has proven very useful over the years is forming word associations to help children remember the alphabets easily. Most alphabet books already come with common word associations like ‘a’ is for apple. You can help widen their spectrum by forming associations with other everyday objects that start with the letter ‘a’.
Forming new word associations can help a child relate and compare more with common objects rather than the ones specified in alphabet books. This makes the child more aware and enables him to develop the ability to rationally analyze things and apply his or her knowledge practically.
Visual Aids
Visual aids have always been a very helpful tool in all forms of education and for all age groups of knowledge. For children, you can use toys in the shape of alphabets. Playing with them will familiarize your child to the shapes of the alphabets. In the course of their play, the child will become accustomed to the shapes of the alphabets.
Positive Reinforcement
Although this is a behavior modification technique, it can be used to deal with problematic situations. If your child faces difficulty with a particular alphabet, a reward or a gesture to demonstrate positive feedback will motivate your child to attempt to do it right.
Alphabets are the building blocks of written English language. With these methods, you can easily help your child learn their alphabets.
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