Can you recall all the times you had to read in school?
From mandatory reading sessions to the English oral examination, reading is an unavoidable skill every student needs to master in this competitive education system.
A question that pops up frequently is: How can I make my kid start reading?
Phonics is one of the best ways for young kids to start learning how to read. In fact, most of us were exposed to phonics in one way or another.
In this article, we will explore everything about phonics and what you can do to help your child (or yourself) better develop your reading and speaking abilities!
1. What exactly is English Phonics?
2. Types of Phonics Classes, Reading Programmes and Approaches in Singapore
3. Where can you get Phonics Enrichment Classes and Reading Programmes in Singapore?
4. Teaching English Phonics at Home using Phonics Books, Phonics Worksheets and Other Printables
5. Teaching Phonics at Home using YouTube, Phonics Websites and Phonics Apps
6. I’m an Adult – Should I Learn Phonics? Where can I learn Phonics for Adults?
What exactly is English Phonics?
Phonics allows us to identify the sounds of English words and build complex words and sentences with them.
It also develops our phonemic awareness – the ability to hear, understand and use sounds in spoken words.
With a history of over 200 years, the phonics system of reading has been ingrained in our culture. We now have a plethora of phonics teaching approaches that are well-designed for every child in mind.
Is Phonics the same as Phonetics?
Well, these two terms do sound similar, and sometimes even erroneously used interchangeably, they are fundamentally different.
Phonics is used to teach children how to read English words. It works by linking the sounds they know to letters and words.
Phonetics is the study of sounds in human languages, usually by scrutinising pronunciation and the vocal anatomy.
I hope that this simple explanation clears up the misconception. Remember, learning phonetics does not mean you’re learning phonics!
Phonics Alphabet, Sounds and Symbols
Are we ready to jump right into the basics of phonics? Firstly, you need to understand that the sounds of the English language are crucial in phonics.
We can represent the 26 alphabets of the English language using 44 sounds, individually or in combination.
These 44 sounds are in line with the International Phonetic Alphabet.
Consonants
/b/, /d/, /f/, /g/, /h/, /j/, /k/, /l/, /m/, /n/, /ng/, /p/, /r/, /s/, /t/, /v/, /w/, /y/, /z/
Digigraphs
/zh/ (-s), /ch/, /sh/, /th/ (voiced and unvoiced)
Short Vowels
/a/, /e/, /i/, /o/, /u/, /oo/ (took)
Long Vowels
/ā/ (-ai, tail), /ē/ (-ee, see), /, /ī/, /ō/ (-oa, coat), /ü/ (-oo, mood), /y/ or /ü/ (u, uniform, you), /oi/, /ow/, /ә/ (-er, better)
Bossy “R” Vowels
/ã/ (-air, pair), /ä/ (-ar, jar), /û/ (-ir, heir), /ô/ (-aw, law), /ēә/ (-ear, hear), /üә/ (-ure, sure)
Click here to listen to the 44 sounds.
The Basic Rules of Phonics for Kids
Now that you’ve identified the alphabets and sounds of the phonics system, it’s time to bring in the rules of phonics.
In order to do well in both reading and spelling, you have to follow phonics instructions, such as those of spelling patterns, spelling rules and syllables.
There are numerous rules for phonics, but we have prioritised and simplified the important ones to remember here:
1. Vowels are contained in every syllable
A syllable is a single, unbroken sound of a word.
2. “Long” and “Short” vowels
A syllable with only 1 vowel – Vowels are usually short. (Big, Small, Cat, Dog)
A syllable that has only 1 vowel and ends with a vowel – Vowels are usually long (He, Fly)
3. Silent “e”
When a syllable has only 2 vowels, and “e” is the last letter of the word, the first vowel is usually long while the “e” is silent. (Bike, Make, Sale, Inside)
4. Dropping the “e” for -ing
Words with the silent “e” drop the “e” for their present participle. (Make/making, Bike/Biking)
5. Consonant (non-vowels) Pairs:
Both consonants are the same – Only 1 sound is made (Pass, Hammer, Mutt)
Combination of 2 different consonants to form 1 sound (Chair, Phone, Share, Clam)
6. The Bossy “r”
When an “r” comes after a vowel in a syllable, the sound is controlled by the “r” instead of the vowel (Car, Bird, Ear)
7. Plural Rules
For most words, add an “s” to make them plural (Cat/Cats)
For singular words that end with s, sh, ch, x or z, add an “es” to make them plural (Catch/Catches)
8. Y Rules
A word that ends with a vowel and then “y” – Add an “s” for its plural form (boy/boys)
A word that ends with a consonant then “y” – Change the ”y” into “i” and add “es” for its plural form (Family/families)
Even though rules are rules, there is absolutely no need to be too fixated on them. In some cases, the rules do not apply.
Thankfully, the more you read, the better your reading skills will be.
What is the best age for my child to start learning Phonics and attend reading programmes?
Your child will be ready for phonics when they have phonological awareness, which means that they can recognise each of the 44 different sounds mentioned above.
As a parent or teacher, you can check your child’s phonological awareness by quizzing them on the sounds. If your child does not seem to have it, you can always use a phonics chart or soundboard to help them learn it.
In addition, they also need to identify all the letters of the alphabets.
So, what’s the exact age to start learning phonics?
Most children can start learning phonics between three to four years of age when they do fulfil the two requirements mentioned above.
However, don’t be too caught up with the specific age or time to learn phonics. Every single child is different, so just keep an eye on their progress before starting them on phonics classes.
What about adults? Are we suitable for phonics?
Yes, definitely! Whether you are learning English as a new language, or trying to improve your reading skills, phonics lessons can be incredibly helpful for you.
Why is English Phonics important for my child?
Learning Phonics helps in reading and literacy skills
Before learning how to read, words can appear like a weird mess of lines and dots.
Imagine looking at a piece of abstract art. That’s how words appear to young children who haven’t mastered phonics!
Phonics works like a pair of reading glasses, helping children to “see” these words clearly and understand them.
Through phonics, as they encounter new words, they will learn to break them down to understand the overall meaning of each complex word.
As children read more, they can then recognise familiar words and gradually become confident and fast readers. Practice does make perfect!
Learning Phonics helps in knowledge and academic abilities
Stephen Hawking once said “Nothing is better than reading and gaining more and more knowledge”.
Phonics prepares you to read, so that you can understand the knowledge found in words.
When you can read, you have an entire world of information at your fingertips – from stories, poems, newspapers, to even self-help books.
In general, reading frequently will surely improve your child’s vocabulary, general knowledge and intelligence.
You can also spell better when you read more. Wouldn’t it be nice to see your child be the next Big Spell champion?
You can be certain that learning phonics will make your child more confident in the English language, the lingua franca of the world.
Types of Phonics Classes, Reading Programmes and Approaches in Singapore (Synthetic, Analytical, Jolly, Montessori)
Given the long history of phonics (over 200 years), there are various different implementations of phonics instruction.
Generally, phonics may be taught either using a synthetic or analytical approach.
Synthetic Phonics versus Analytic Phonics Classes
Synthetic phonic programs are structured to first teach children the 44 sounds of the English language before recognising words. Children first learn to break up words into their individual sounds and then blend the sounds into actual words.
Analytic phonic programs teach children to analyse letter sounds only after learning a word. For example, a child understands the sound for “oy” by referring to a common word “boy”.
While these two programs sound very different, both are effective in teaching phonics.
For parents considering phonics classes, take time to chat with the learning centre or teacher regarding the phonics curriculum. Often, phonics teachers will utilise a mix of both programs to tailor their phonics classes to your kid.
What are Montessori or Jolly Phonics classes?
Montessori Phonics and Jolly phonics are regulated, branded styles of learning that use either systemic or analytic phonic programs, or even a combination. Both Montessori and Jolly phonics programs are very popular in Singapore.
Montessori Phonics is a mode of learning developed by Maria Montessori. Learning under the Montessori approach is characterised by the child’s discovery and independence rather than instructed by a teacher.
Children will learn the foundation of phonics first, before focusing on identifying words and meaning.
Montesorri phonics curriculum may also include hands-on activities such as tracing letters and holding pencils to better prepare them for reading and writing.
Jolly Phonics is a systematic approach to teaching phonics by simplifying the 42 letter sounds into 7 groups. It was developed by Chris Jolly.
Children are then taught 5 skills that cover letter sounds, letter formation, sound blending, sound listening in words and tricky words. The Jolly phonics approach can also be helpful for children that are learning English as a second language.
Do I need to choose between Montessori or Jolly Phonics? Which Phonics reading program is the best?
Firstly, every child has their own learning style, thus it is hard to say which approach will work. However, generally speaking, either approach will be sufficient in getting your child to start reading.
It is also best to check with the enrichment centres and teachers their accreditation they are promoting their phonics programs with either of these two brands.
When you’re searching for a phonics program, also take note that some programs may not use either approach – and that’s fine. An experienced teacher can always be as effective in teaching phonics to your child.
Preschool and Kindergarten Phonics Classes and Reading Programs in Singapore
Most preschools, kindergartens and Primary schools in Singapore offer phonics classes in their general English curriculum.
Phonics is part of the Ministry of Education’s Nurturing Early Learners (NEL) Framework, which is used by many preschools and kindergartens for their curriculum planning.
In order to make phonics lessons interesting, preschools and kindergartens have a collection of fun and engaging activities that encourages children’s interest in phonics. These activities include show and tell, phonics games and videos.
Some kindergartens also have reading activities, spelling tests and writing workshops to better prepare their students for primary school English.
Where can you get Phonics Enrichment Classes and Reading Programmes in Singapore?
Many Singaporean parents send their preschool and kindergarten children to tuition and enrichment classes.
As such, there are a lot of English enrichment centres around to meet this thirst for phonics lessons.
With so many options available for phonics classes, how do you pick the right phonics learning centre for your child?
Don’t worry – you’re on the right article!
We have spent the time researching and compiling our list of recommended phonics enrichment centres in 2020, organised by location so that you can find one that works for you!
Recommended Phonics Reading Classes and Teachers near me
Multiple Locations – Throughout Singapore
I Can Read
With over 20 years of experience in English literacy, I Can Read claims to have the world’s best reading programme. Their signature “I Can Read” courses use the signature “I Can Read” system to build independent readers.
Their courses cater to children aged 2.5 to 12, focusing on a wide variety of different read, write and play activities to improve their phonological awareness and literacy skills.
Having 25 outlets islandwide, you’ll never be too far away from an I Can Read centre. Find the nearest outlet near you.
Read In A Week
Touted as Singapore’s best phonics class, “Read In A Week” uses the synthetic phonics teaching approach to engage children to learn how to read and write quickly. Their reading programme has benefited more than 10,000 students to-date.
Children between the ages of 4 to 12 can enrol in their 3-in-1 programme to equip themselves in good phonics, reading and spelling techniques.
Read In A Week has 20 locations, most of them found in the heartlands. Check if you have a Read In A Week centre near you.
Edufarm
Established over 40 years ago, the Letterland synthetic phonics programme used by Edufarm prioritises letter sounds to teach students how to read and spell effectively. Edufarm is also similarly experienced with childcare and education services, with playground, tuition and enrichment programmes under their helm.
No child is too young for phonics in Edufarm’s phonics programme as it caters to toddlers from as young as 18 months old to preschoolers as old as 7 years old.
Their course is priced at $240 per term for 12 sessions. With at least 160 centres offering phonics located all around Singapore, you may even find one right under your block.
MindChamps
Touted as one of the top premium education providers in Singapore, the MindChamps Reading Programme is tailored for children aged 3 to 7. With 10 enrichment centres all over the island, there will always be a MindChamps centre located in your region.
The Reading Programme is conducted over 10 weeks, with 2 hours for each session. Your child will be grouped into one of three curriculum levels based on their reading ability.
More information (such as pricing and schedule) will only be disclosed via a privately-arranged consultation with MindChamps.
My English School
Guide by the five stages of reading instructions, My English School’s reading programmes aim to bring your child from phonemic awareness to complete self-managed comprehension. Class sizes are kept small to provide maximum attention to each child.
Toddlers aged 2.5 years old can start their first English classes with My English School. Four different classes cater for all levels of reading proficiency.
My English School is well-distributed around Singapore with 12 locations, many of them near the heartlands and CBD. Start your child’s English learning journey with My English School here.
People’s Association Community Centres
One of the most popular community centre classes, the phonics classes offered by People’s Association can be found throughout Singapore.
These classes are meant for children in nursery to pre-primary. You can choose between wide-variety of classes available from phonics, reading to Montessori classes for your kid.
Prices range from $39 to $190. You can check out the list of classes available here.
North and West (Woodlands, Bukit Batok, Yishun, Sembawang, Ang Mo Kio, Sengkang)
Little Readers – Genius Tots
Voted as one of the top 3 preschools in Sengkang, Little Readers provides nursery and English enrichment lessons for children in the North-East region. They use the synthetic phonics approach in small classes to guide children to read well.
Starting $15 per lesson, your child between the ages of 3.5 to 7 can be part of their comprehensive Phonics Reading and Literacy Programme. Classes are held either at Punggol Central (near Waterway Point) or at Sengkang (near Compass One).
You can reach out to them here.
Learning Journey
Within their tuition and enrichment classes covering an extensive list of subjects and scope, Learning Journey education centre provides the Super Readers programme, with emphasis on phonics, reading and art.
Designed for children aged 4 to 7, Super Readers empowers your child to read independently and effectively. In addition to the small class sizes, Learning Journey also has 1-1 coaching and class materials that are personalised to your child’s learning style.
Their branches in Punggol East and Serangoon North are easily accessible by public transportation. They have also made clear and simple instructions to get to their branches.
Jan & Elly
Adored with two “Best of the Best in Phonics and Reading” titles from Parents’ World in 2017 and 2018, Jan & Elly English Language School is definitely an esteemed English language school.
Their tri-tiered phonics programme for students aged 4 to 6 develops your child’s reading and English proficiency so that they are well-prepared for the Primary school education.
With four branches in Bukit Timah, Joo Chiat, Seletar Hills and Serangoon Gardens, they may be a little out of the way, but their expertise and professionalism make them a worthwhile choice for quality phonics lessons.
Central and East (CBD, Toa Payoh, Bishan, Bukit Timah, River Valley, Bedok, Tampines, Paya Lebar, Siglap)
School of Concepts
An award-winning educational centre, School of Concepts is frequently featured in articles from the Business Times, Channel NewsAsia and The New Paper. Their phonics-based literacy programme was also recognised as being one of the best by Parents World in 2019.
School of Concepts has phonics and English programmes and workshops for children aged 18 months old all the way to those in Primary school.
Located at the two extreme ends of the island, School of Concepts will be the phonics centre of choice for those near Westgate in Jurong East or Singpost Centre in Eunos and Paya Lebar. Be sure to contact them to find out more about their phonics programme.
Curious Thoughts Academy
Specialising in English and Mathematics, Curious Thought Academy provides quality education and enrichment classes to children. The Academy teaches phonics using the Jolly Phonics framework and is Singapore’s only centre to have a Jolly Learning certified trainer.
Children aged 18 months to 7 years old are given customised Jolly phonics classes in small groups. The 1:4 teacher-student ratio can also guarantee a high level of attention bestowed to each pupil.
Currently, Curious Thoughts Academy is located at the Waterloo Centre, nested within walking distances to Bencoolen, Bras Basah and Bugis MRT stations. Free trial classes are available too.
Lorna Whiston
Awarded by the Child Preschool Awards as the Best in Providing Well-Balanced Early Years Programme in 2019, Lorna Whiston is a reputable preschool and enrichment classes education provider since 1980.
Their “Fun with Phonics” programme is designed for children aged 4 to 7, and uses games, activities and audio-visual aids to teach children how to read, write and spell. Lessons are held for 1.5 hours on weekdays and 2 hours on weekends.
With two locations in Parkway Parade and United Square, Lorna Whiston can be accessible to parents living in the central and eastern regions of Singapore. Get in touch with their admissions team here.
Phonics Home Tuition with a Private Tutor
For such a delicate yet significant subject, some parents have considered private home tuition for their child’s phonics classes.
Private tutors are able to provide your child with the utmost attention and will definitely tune their approach to your child’s needs. Furthermore, the convenience of home tuition makes it incredibly appealing to many parents.
We have an outstanding article for you to learn more about the differences between group tuition and private home tuition.
You can source for a phonics tutor using forums such as Kiasu Parents or even classified advertisements. However, do treat these recommendations and listings with a pinch of salt as they may not always be what it seems.
Tuition agencies are a safer choice when it comes to looking for private home tutors, as they have a well-defined system for sourcing, coordinating and managing private tutors. Any disputes with a private tutor can also be better resolved – often with preferential outcomes.
If you are looking for phonics home tuition, you can request one from SmileTutor. We’re Singapore’s most reliable tuition agency with over 50,000 tutors available for your child.
Our phonics tutors can cater to your every requirement, from Monetsessori, Jolly, synthetic or even individualised phonics approaches.
With our private phonics home tuition, you can manage all aspects of the cost, convenience and control of your child’s phonics lessons. For parents today, private phonics home tuition is indeed a smart choice to make.
Teaching English Phonics at Home using Phonics Books, Phonics Worksheets and Other Printables
Phonics, unlike other more technical subjects like Mathematics or Science, can be easily taught at home. In fact, it is beneficial to gain exposure to the phonic sounds as early as they can.
What if you already have a phonics teacher for your child? Well, it clearly doesn’t hurt to learn more.
Recapping phonics at home can supplement your kid’s existing phonics knowledge in preschool, kindergartens and enrichment classes, allowing them to understand and retain their learning better.
How do I teach my kid to read using Phonics?
In order to teach phonics well at home, be sure to use a wide variety of educational materials such as phonics books, phonics charts and sheets, phonics videos and phonics flashcards. We’ll be recommending some of our top picks in the lists below.
Recommended Phonics Books and Readers for Children
If your child is able to recognise some letter sounds, sits still for at least 5 minutes, and shows some interest in learning, your child is ready for phonics books and readers.
There are many phonics books and readers available in stores, the library and even in digital copies.
Sit them down and go through the book with them. Afterwards, you should allow your kid to read a book on their own.
Usborne Very First Reading Set
Reading doesn’t have to be a one-way monologue with this phonic reader set. You can share the joy of reading with your child as both of you enjoy a story together.
Every subsequent book in the set increases in its reading difficulty, and this set of 15 high-quality books can be read through preschool, kindergarten and even early Primary.
With the collection of interesting storylines, amazing artwork and learning available in these books, we must say it will be a great start for your child’s home library!
The Usborne Very First Reading Set is available from Kinokuniya for $182.37.
Peppa Phonics Boxed Set
Is your child a fan of Peppa Pig? If yes, then this series is perfect for them!
Your child can start their reading journey with Peppa Pig guiding them. Ten stories involving Peppa Pig are specially developed and written to help children learn their vowels and begin reading.
What’s more, each boxed set comes with 2 phonics worksheets for your child to practice what they’ve learnt. Jolly!
Scholastic’s Peppa Phonics Boxed Set is available from Open Trolley for $24.83.
Educational Publishing House My Phonics Books
More likely than not, you’d have had some experiences with Educational Publishing House (EPH)’s books. One of the leading assessment and textbooks publishers in Singapore, EPH also has a great series of phonics books in their collection.
With audio recordings available online, these My Phonics books are well-rounded for parents in improving your child’s reading and spelling skills.
TMy Phonics series contains a total of 5 titles for continued reading and learning. They will make phonics fun and easy to learn through the various repetition and guided activities included.
EPH’s My Phonics Books (1 to 5) can be found in Popular Bookstores and Open Schoolbag for $4.90 each.
Using Free Phonics Charts, Worksheets, Flashcards and Printables to Teach Phonics
As a parent in 2020, you have more resources at your fingertips than ever before to utilise in your kid’s education. Teaching your kid phonics can be a breeze with all the interactive, engaging and educational resources you can access online.
Phonics Chart, Sheets and Worksheets
Learning phonics can be time-consuming especially if your child does not have enough practice with the topic.
With these free printable phonics charts and sheets, you can speed up the learning process by guiding your child on their way to phonics proficiency.
An idea you may consider: Decorate your house or your child’s room with these charts and make learning phonics a lifestyle for your kid.
You can visit the websites listed below to download all the free phonics printables your child requires in her journey to be a competent reader:
Free Education.com Phonics Worksheets
Free Super Teacher Worksheets on Phonics
Free PhonicBooks Tables and Charts
Free Whimsy Workshop Teaching Phonics Chart
Free PhonicTalk.com Phonics Chart
Phonics Flashcards
Flashcards are a fantastic new way of teaching phonics to your children. They are best used to prompt ideas and encourage interaction in your phonics letter and sounds classes.
Printable and smaller on hand, these flashcards can also be brought around and kept easily. Print these flashcards on thicker or photo paper to prolong their longevity.
Better yet, how about a nice breezy outdoor phonics lesson in the park?
You can click on the links below to download free printable phonics flashcards:
Free K5 Learning Phonics Flashcards
Free ESL Pronunciation and Phonics Flashcards
Free Flashcards for Kindergarten A-Z Phonics Flashcards
Free ThisReadingMama Phonics Cards (Mega Pack)
Free Spelling-Words-Well Phonics Flashcards
Teaching Phonics at Home using YouTube, Phonics Websites and Phonics Apps
Recommended YouTube channels and Videos Teaching Kids Phonics
The online library of videos on YouTube has exploded in recent years, and it possesses more content than just simply travel videos and comedy sketches now.
It is absolutely possible to teach your child phonics strictly using content from YouTube itself.
Videos can be more entertaining (sorry parents), and although frowned upon, they can make a good travel companion for your child. Furthermore, these phonics videos will be more educational for your child than other cartoon series.
Alphablocks
Derived from the hit BBC TV show CBeebies, Alphablocks guide your child on the correct (British) pronunciation of various vowels and letter sounds with fun and quirky characters.
With over 316 million views across four channels, they prove to be a popular educational YouTube channel for parents and children worldwide.
Here are some interactive and engaging video playlists on phonics:
Phonics – ABC Adventures
Phonics – Journey Through the Alphabet
Phonics – Words Beginning With …
Alphablocks – Learn to Read in Syllables
Jack Hartmann Kids Music Channel
Phonics? Check. Funny? Check. Catchy Music? Check.
Jack Hartmann’s extensive YouTube channel contains close to 1000 videos (which is still growing) and over 514 million views on his videos. Jack does have what it takes to connect to children and teach phonics well.
Take note, parents – his songs can be WAY too catchy and may stick around in both you and your kid’s minds. Let’s hope that will be a good problem to have.
Explore some of his top phonics video playlists here:
Pebbles Live
The pinnacle of edutainment, Pebbles Live contains both storytelling and teacher explanations that will draw your child in to learn phonics. Their phonics course is made using animated videos to keep your kid’s attention on the screen.
Learning phonics through Pebbles Live will never be a chore.
Don’t be afraid to subscribe to their massive library of 3,592 videos. This channel will continue to grow and produce more interactive and edutaining content for you and your kid.
Take a look at some of Pebble Live’s fun phonics videos here:
Best Phonics Websites and Apps that Teach Kids to Read
In the past, phonics used to be one of the many subjects that had to be taught by a teacher. Now, with the advent of the Internet, you can use websites and apps to learn everything and anything.
Phonics can now be found in interactive websites and apps with tantalizing cartoons and graphics and groovy music. Learning has evolved into a form of entertainment – and this is for the better.
Here is our list of recommended phonics websites and games that you can use to teach your child phonics and gradually introduce modern technology to them.
Starfall Phonics Website
One of the earliest entries of the free phonics websites, Starfall was founded in 2012 and has remained one of the most popular pages for children to learn how to read.
With a visual interface that will thrill any kid, it contains a large library of phonics games and activities to help children with their phonics.
All content on Starfall Phonics is made with amazing music and videos, allowing letter sounds to be well-understood even without a teacher around physically.
PBS Kids Website
Designed for children aged 2 to 10, PBS Kids is a wonderful website that features educational programs adapted from US television broadcaster Public Broadcasting Service (PBS).
Your child will benefit from their “ABC”, “Rhyming” and “Reading” categories of games and videos, helping them to improve their reading abilities immensely.
On PBS Kids, your child can also interact with their favourite characters (maybe Clifford the Big Red Dog?) in a fun, colourful and cheerful learning environment.
They can put on their listening ears for interesting stories or use their wits to play various phonics games available.
Khan Academy Kids (App)
If you have done any online learning, you will be familiar with Khan Academy. Focused on bringing free online education to everyone, Khan Academy makes learning personalised and accelerated as you can pace your own learning.
Khan Academy Kids uses the same concept to bring reading and language classes into your smartphones. Your child can master these skills with cute characters, open-ended activities and games.
Its high-quality curriculum and fun learning content are continuously being updated with new books and songs.
Completely free and void of any advertisements, Khan Academy Kids is a gift for all parents.
Download Khan Academy Kids from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Reading Eggs – Learn to Read (App)
Trusted and research-based, Reading Eggs is a self-paced educational app that teaches your child how to read using phonics, phonemic awareness, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension.
Designed for children aged 2 to 13 in mind, there are animated online classes, fun activities, games and even 2000 books available, ensuring that all the phonics education your kid needs can be found in the app.
Reading Eggs requires a monthly subscription of around $12 to access their full range of educational content. All new subscriptions can get a month free.
Download Readings Eggs – Learn to Read from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Lingokids – English Learning For Kids (App)
Highly-rated and adored with awards, Lingokids is a well-received English learning app for children aged 2 to 8. Lingokids can be used for new students, so your child does not need to know any English before beginning.
It uses an extensive collection of interactive games, activities and videos to make reading and learning intuitive. Furthermore, their content has been certified by the Oxford University Press, making them extremely trustworthy.
Lingokids is free for use in its basic version, but for USD$15 a month, you can access unlimited games, features and learning materials in Lingokids Unlimited.
Download Lingokids – English Learning For Kids from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
I’m an Adult – Should I Learn Phonics? Where can I learn Phonics for Adults?
Phonics is not purely a subject for children. That’s because phonics is the foundation for reading and writing, which is meant for anyone struggling, not solely children.
As such, it is never too late even for you, an adult, to learn phonics.
Also, you’re not alone. In Singapore, the adult literacy rate is at 97%, which means that there are many others who cannot read and write.
Taking the brave leap to start learning phonics can help you so much more with your life, especially in this English-speaking country.
While you can use the phonics resources that we’ve mentioned above, like books, printables, videos or websites, they can be a little kiddy. Of course, they’ll work fine for learning phonics, but here are more age-appropriate content.
Is there a difference in learning phonics as an adult versus a child?
Granted, there are a lot more resources and help available for younger learners in phonics. However, most adult phonics learners do have a bit more starting ground compared to children.
Some adult learners are new to the English language and use phonics for a quick and hassle-free method to learn how to read. Others may have problems reading due to learning difficulties or lack of proper education.
Therefore, learning phonics for adults is about filling in the gaps between what they know, and what they don’t.
Adult phonics lessons will normally start with learning the different sounds of the letters and letter groups. Once this knowledge is obtained through practice, adult learners can quickly become smooth readers in no time.
Phonics Classes and Reading Programmes for Adults in Singapore (SkillsFuture and others)
Adults looking to learn phonics have a few courses available around that will improve your English language proficiency.
Most of these phonics lessons are affordable, and there are some that can be paid directly using SkillsFuture credits, making them essentially free for you.
Singaporeans over the age of 25 will be given $500 in SkillsFuture credits to develop and strengthen their skills to find better employment.
Here are a few courses in Singapore that teach phonics and reading for adults:
SkillsFuture@PA Fundamentals of Phonics
Held at Bishan Community Club, this People’s Association course is perfect for adults who are looking to improve their reading, writing and speaking.
Throughout the 12-hours course, you will be able to learn the various rules of phonics, pronunciation, reading skills and even how to teach phonics.
With a fee of $162, this can be fully claimed using your SkillsFuture credits, while leaving much more for other courses.
Learn more about the SkillsFuture@PA Fundamentals of Phonics course here.
British Council Singapore General English Classes
With centres in over 100 countries, the British Council is, simply put, the United Kingdom’s organisation that works to spread the English language and culture around the world.
They have multiple English courses for adults, and their General English courses can help out those with even the lowest level of English proficiency.
In general, all of the courses will help you to read, write and converse in English. The fees start at $1711.90 for twice-weekly lessons, over the course of three months.
Check out the British Council’s website to learn more about General English classes.
@ASK Training Phonics and Phonetics for Adults – Fundamentals
A Workforce Development Agency Approved Training Organisation, @ASK Training is a skills training provider that has delivered effective learning programmes over the years.
Their Phonics and Phonetics for Adults course is a day-long workshop held at the JTC Summit building in Jurong East. Participants will be able to see improvements in their listening, reading and writing abilities at the end of this short course.
The workshop costs $299.60, but is not eligible for a SkillsFuture Credit claim.
Find out more about @ASK Training Phonics and Phonetics for Adults course here.
SmileTutor Phonics Home Tuition
Home tuition is an excellent way to learn phonics as an adult. We know that time can be precious, hence the accelerated learning of home tuition lessons will help you to learn fast, and learn well.
Here at SmileTutor, we have thousands of phonics tutors available who are versatile and adaptable in teaching adult learners.
Being the only student in your class, you also have full control over the lessons and full tutor attention, all from the comforts of your home (and pajamas). What’s more, they can also be incredibly affordable too!
As an adult phonics learner, you can look forward to individual letter sounds recognition and pronunciation aid, reading help, conversation suggestions, and even tips from a fellow adult on how to use English better.
You can request for a phonics home tutor from our 3-steps handy form here.
Learn Phonics Using Free Online Resources for Adults
If you are able to ignore the childishness of the animations and silly music, the online phonics resources that I’ve recommended above are still excellent for adult phonics.
Make no mistake, adults do enjoy these fun, engaging and interactive content too.
But what about phonics resources built for adults? Are they available online?
While there is some phonics content for adults, there are very few websites offering it.
Most of the online phonics resources available for adults do not come with any interactivity or games that you expect in phonics activities. However, they will be able to get the job done and help you learn how to read well.
EnglishForEveryone.org has a good collection of free printable phonics worksheets that are suitable for adult learners.
After doing these worksheets, you should take their online phonics quizzes to check your understanding.
Conclusion – Learning and Teaching Phonics in Singapore
As you can see, it is definitely not difficult to get a good education on phonics in Singapore. From phonics classes (for both children and adults), free phonics worksheets, phonics websites to phonics apps and videos, there is an abundance of phonics help available everywhere.
If you know anyone (or their child) struggling with reading, please share this article with them and spread the joy of reading.
Do you have any good recommendations for any phonics help (classes, websites, videos, printables, books)? Tell us in the comments down below!
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