Acquire a set of letter blocks and use clear, repetitive speech trials to introduce and promote recognition of letters and number symbols.
Integrate phonics. Begin with consonants (b, c, d) and blends (br, cr, dr), then add vowels (a, e, i, o, u), digraph sounds (sh, ch), double vowels (ea, oo) and specialties such as silent e and vowels with the letter r.
Establish a sequenced routine. Perform 15 minutes of vocabulary with the blocks (audible instruction), followed by 15 minutes of phonics instruction and conclude with 15 minutes of storytelling or reading to reinforce the concepts (whole language instruction).
Develop a goal sheet. With the child's participation, set goals for learning. For example, one child might want to learn five new words a day and another may want to master the alphabet in a week. Create a reward system for efforts and performance.