So how do you get kids to learn without the usual flash card drills, videos, or computer games? Here are a few ways that I've come up with to incorporate learning the alphabet in fun, playful ways:
- Sing! It sounds so simple, but it really works. I have a Eric Carle print of A-Z animals hanging above my youngest (16-months-old) daughter's changing table. She can't sing it by herself, but she loves chiming in with me as we're changing her diaper. I catch her singing to herself once in a while too. :)
- Alphabet blocks
- The learning doesn't have to be forced. Your child is getting
exposure to the letters by simply seeing them on each block as they
build. You may say the letter as your child picks up a block, or simply
let them experience them on their own. They're absorbing the shapes of
the letters as they play.
- Alphabet books -There are so many out there! When visiting the library, your local bookstore, or online, just do a quick search. You'll be amazed at the variety you'll find. One of my favorite sights is watching my youngest "read" a book to herself. ABC books are some of her favorites because she feels like she knows the words.
- Magnet play - Growing up, my family had alphabet magnets on our refrigerator. We LOVED playing with them (and still leave messages for one another when we're home visiting). They're inexpensive and easy to find. Some of you may have stainless steel refrigerators that aren't magnetic, so where can you put them? I took my idea for an inexpensive alternative that is easy and fun from this post!
- Matching games - My mother made this beautiful quilted version for my daughter's 2nd birthday. There are lots of beautiful panels of fabric available to create something similar, but if you're not a seamstress, there are plenty of quick and easy ideas on Pinterest too. Check them out here.
