How to Teach Rhyming Words to Kids

1Why rhyming matters

Rhyming is one of the first signs that a child is listening to the sounds inside words, not only to what the word means.

That listening skill is what later lets a child break words into sounds and read them.

2Step 1: do these rhyme?

Say two words: cat, hat. Do they rhyme? Then cat, dog. Stretch the end of the word a little so your child can hear it.

Use pictures or toys if words alone are hard.

3Step 2: find the rhyme

Say three words, two that rhyme and one that does not: sun, fun, cup. Which one does not belong?

This is harder, so keep it short and celebrate each right answer.

4Step 3: make a rhyme

Say a word and ask for one that rhymes: cat, and your child says bat or mat. Nonsense words that rhyme count too.

Turn it into a game in the car or at dinner, taking turns.

Practice this in the free reading appReading games your child can play on a phone, tablet or computer. Every word can be sounded out. No sign-up.Open the app

Quick tips

• Play rhyming games by ear, no letters needed.
• Stretch the end of the word: c-at, h-at.
• Read rhyming books and let your child finish the line.
• Accept silly made-up rhymes.
• Keep games short and fun.

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