Rhyming words can be one of the basic skills that help children begin to spell and read by teaching them how to connect the similarities and differences in words. At WVL, we advocate using rhyming cards that show pictures of different items, two or more of which sound alike. Some children quickly pick up on words that end the same or rhyme, while others need more practice. There are many benefits to using rhyming cards for children who are preparing to learn to read or in the early stages of their reading development.
Rhyming and Reading
Rhymes have been used for centuries as a way for children to learn. Rhymes teach children to understand sounds and learn words in an engaging and fun way. They have also been used for teaching lessons and values. However, extensive research has been done on the value of rhyming for literacy; helping children translate what they hear and mimic through from speaking to reading and writing those same words. Using rhyming cards can help them begin to connect the dots on what they speak to how those words may be similar when written.
How to Use Rhyming Cards
Rhyming cards are a fundamental tool for early learners, especially pre-school children. Each card may have a few different pictures, with or without the printed words. It is important to fully explain what a rhyme is by giving the child examples. Remember, some children are quick to pick up on rhymes while others may not catch the similarities right away. Listening is key. Start by giving them examples of words that sound the same, like cat and hat, and words that do not. Then, move on to using the rhyming cards by having the child say what each picture is out loud, so they can hear the similarities.
Rhymes are everywhere in children’s stories, especially the beloved Dr. Seuss books. You can use these books for rhyming as well by having children pick out the words that sound the same. They can also begin to see how many words that sound the same also look the same; enhancing their literacy skills while having fun listening to the story.
Rhyming cards are one of the fundamental tools that can help our early learners transform into avid readers. At WVL, we use many different tools and techniques to help our students grasp the different concepts they will learn as they grow.