Where learning is fun at Sounds Right Phonics // Review

Last Autumn, Freddie and I were invited to one of our local Sounds Right Phonics class to see for ourselves how much fun learning phonics can be for little ones. It was a class that promotes having fun with music, different sound, colourful lights and props to introduce them to literacy and speech.  We have been taking the class for the last 8 weeks and it has been really enjoyable. 

Making phonics fun

We weren’t too sure what to expect when we started the class but we need not have worried. We were met at the start of the class by our tutors, Jenna and Sarah who were very friendly and welcoming. Freddie and I found a spare spot on the floor and eagerly awaited the class to begin.

Our class started with a warm up song which was easy to get involved in. There’s no pressure to join in but little ones are actively encouraged to take part. At first, Freddie wasn’t too sure what was going on so sat at the side with me and watched on. As soon as some music came on the stereo, he was up on his feet dancing and smiling away.

Each class gives toddlers the opportunity to explore sounds and rhymes, and develop and enhance speaking and listening skills as well as activities to improve gross motor skills.

Throughout the class there is a class mascot called Robot Reg. He’s a lovable robot who encourages children to get involved and be active during the class. Unfortunately my Freddie has been a bit shy when it comes to Robot Reg and often refuses to high-five or fist pump him. I like that there’s no pressure for any of the children to join in. If they want to dance and make some noise they will, if they don’t, chances are they won’t!

Great use of props and instruments

The 45 minute class follows a structure which I think really works. Regular attendees know that the class has a musical introduction followed by an introduction to phonics mixed in with free play and exploration. Each week, Sarah changed the phonics we were learning and encouraged the children to repeat the sound of small units of words through the use of repetition and a fun activity.

Freddie gets particularly excited when our class leader Sarah brings out a box or prop bag. His particular favourite from the last 8 weeks has been the pom-poms and the instruments. Freddie has loved experimenting with movement and sound with them, it’s brilliant to watch. I’ve seen his confidence grow too with each class.

Over the last 8 weeks, Freddie has been encouraged to dance with pom-poms, make noise with lots of different instruments, roll some plasticine into different shapes, find the hidden item around the room and experiment with feathers and scarves. He’s had a brilliant time. All of the activities have been linked to the phonics and it’s been brilliant to see him enjoying himself.

The class is busy and energetic, perfect for little ones to use up some of their never-ending energy. We’ve really enjoyed the sessions at Sounds Right Phonics. So much so, we’ve booked to take the next term of classes and we can’t wait. Huge thanks to Jenna and Sarah for inviting us and making us feel so welcome.

To find out more and to find out where your local class is head to https://soundsrightphonicsclasses.co.uk/

Disclosure: We were invited to the class last term to experience the class and share our review.