journys list of kindergarten sight words

Journeys List of Kindergarten Sight Words

When it comes to teaching children how to read, many parents and educators debate on whether to focus on phonics or sight words first. As someone who has spent years homeschooling and running a child care business, I firmly believe that teaching phonics should come before sight words.

My argument is backed by my personal experience with Hooked on Phonics, a program that has helped numerous children learn to read using this approach. By focusing on basic phonics first, followed by just three sight words each couple of lessons, the program provides a solid foundation for reading skills.

In fact, when I began tutoring children in kindergarten, I was so convinced about the effectiveness of Hooked on Phonics that I would often advise parents against the local public school system's approach to teaching sight words only. My experience with homeschooling and child care has taught me that this approach is crucial in helping young readers develop a love for reading.

Looking back, it's amazing how far my journey has taken me. From being a freshman in high school who walked into a 2nd-grade classroom ready to tutor, I've now had the privilege of teaching my own child and witnessing firsthand the power of phonics-based learning.

What struck me most was seeing children who were initially struggling with reading begin to make progress and eventually no longer need extra tutoring by the end of the year. It's a moment that has stayed with me, and one that I will always cherish.

Of course, not everyone agrees on this approach, and some may argue that sight words are essential for early readers. While it's true that sight words can be helpful in certain situations, my experience has shown me that phonics-based learning provides a more comprehensive and sustainable foundation for reading skills.

In conclusion, as someone who has spent years studying and teaching reading, I firmly believe that teaching phonics first is the key to unlocking a child's potential. Whether you're a parent or educator, it's an approach worth considering when helping young readers develop their reading skills.

Journys list of kindergarten sight words