Parents Guide

Sunday School provides an important foundation, but regular practice at home is essential for long-term success.

Even five to ten minutes of daily review can make an enormous difference over time. Consistency is usually more important than the length of any individual study session.

Our goal is not perfection. Our goal is to help children develop confidence, proper pronunciation, and a lifelong connection to learning.

Our Recommended Approach

Step 1: Learn the Sounds

Focus on the sounds that letters make before teaching the names of the letters.

Whether learning English or Arabic, children generally learn to read more easily when they first recognize and produce letter sounds. Reading is ultimately the process of blending sounds together to form words.

For example:

English

Focus on the sound "buh" rather than the letter name "bee"
Focus on the sound "sss" rather than the letter name "ess"

Arabic

Focus on the sound of ب before memorizing its name
Focus on the sound of م before memorizing its name

Parents interested in learning more about phonics-based reading instruction may find the following video helpful:

Why Children Should Learn Letter Sounds Before Letter Names

Step 2: Practice Daily

Spend 5–10 minutes every day reviewing letters and sounds.

Short, consistent sessions are often far more effective than occasional long lessons.

Step 3: Join Letters Together

Once individual sounds are mastered, begin practicing simple two-letter combinations.

Step 4: Build Words

Gradually move from letter combinations to short words.

Step 5: Read Simple Books

Use books with simple vocabulary and short words. Early success builds confidence and encourages children to continue reading.

Step 6: Encourage and Reward

Celebrate effort and consistency.

Many children respond well to sticker charts, stars, extra play time, or small rewards. Simple rewards can often be purchased inexpensively from local dollar stores or online retailers.