Why Can't My Child Recognize Letters?

1Why letters are hard to learn

There are 26 letters, each with a capital and a small shape, many of them alike. To a young child, a, d and g, or n, h and m, can look very close.

Children also need to see a letter many times, on many days, before it sticks. A letter learned on Monday is often gone by Wednesday if it is not used again.

2Teach a few letters at a time

Start with two or three letters that look different from each other, such as s, a and t. Teach the shape and the sound together: this is s, it says sss.

Practice them for a few minutes a day until your child knows them most times. Then add one more. Always start the day with the letters from before.

3Use the letters right away

Letters stick better when they are used. As soon as your child knows s, a and t, put them together: at, sat. Reading a real word makes the letters matter.

Point out the letters your child knows on signs, boxes and books. Keep it light, a quick game, not a test.

4When to ask for help

Tell the teacher if your child is five or older and still knows very few letters after weeks of short, steady practice. Ask what the school's checks show.

If you also notice trouble with hearing the sounds in words, or with rhyming, read our page on the signs of dyslexia, which explains who can evaluate a child.

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

• Teach two or three letters at a time.
• Teach the letter's sound with its shape.
• Start every day with the letters from before.
• Use the letters in short real words as soon as you can.
• Keep sessions to a few minutes.

Not sure where to start? Get a free plan for your child