What Happens When We Target Phonology Early?

A Pre-Reader’s Secret Superpower

In early intervention, targeting phonology isn't just about correcting sounds—it's about laying the foundation for reading success. Focusing on phonological patterns early in speech therapy allows phonological awareness to begin before a child starts reading!

Why Phonology Matters in Pre-Readers

Phonology is the way our sounds are organized, stored, and produced. For pre-readers, especially those with speech sound disorders, this "system" can feel confusing. By targeting phonology directly, we’re not just helping a child speak more clearly—we're allowing their brain to identify, compare, and manipulate sounds....skills needed for future decoding, spelling, and fluent reading.

Watch This:

Practicing production of S in ALL positions WHILE finding it in our target words!

What Parents Can Do at Home

• Play games like 'I Spy' using beginning sounds ('I spy something that starts with /s/').

• Clap out syllables in names, foods, or toys: "apple"-2 claps/"banana"-3 claps.

• Emphasize beginning and ending sounds during daily routines: "w-w-w" "walk"

Final Thoughts

Let's help our kids leap ahead of their peers in the world of sounds, words, and stories by targeting phonology early. They won't just be catching up, they will be confidently soaring ahead!