In a recent episode of the telenovela/drama/comedy "Jane the Virgin" on the CW network, the eponymous character is surprised when her son's teacher suggests that he need more support in reading. (It's surprising because Jane is a published author and voracious reader.) "Play rhyming games with him!" she suggests, and that's exactly what she does. "What word rhymes with 'heart'?" she asks. He thinks a moment. "...Fart!"
Jubilation and laughter follow.
But the teacher's suggestion is a good one. As early literacy expert (and public library saint) Saroj Ghoting writes: "Talking about words that rhyme helps children become more aware of the smaller sounds in words (phonological awareness). Pick a word (e.g. tree) and see if your children can think of a rhyming word. If that is too hard, then see if your children can recognize a rhyming word, which is easier - does tree rhyme with cat? Does tree rhyme with me?"
Reading books with rhymes out loud is another great way to help build your child's phonological awareness. Ask your friendly librarian for suggested books with great rhymes!
- Laura Raphael, Children's Services Coordinator