Learning to read and write

By 8 years of age, a child is capable of expressing themselves well verbally, and is beginning to master the written word. They can read and record their ideas. By the time they are 11, many children are quite comfortable with their ability to produce intelligent, well-thought out written work.

Learning to read is a complex process with many steps.

An essential early step is being read to, or being told stories, as this helps children recognise sounds and sequence of events.

Letter recognition usually begins with learning the symbols of the alphabet. Being able to recognise the letters and the sounds that they make is an important step. Once children understand these, they can begin to sound out words. Sight words emerge next as early readers recognize the word instantly due to repetition. An overall understanding of grammar and punctuation emerges as children get better at reading, which helps with their understanding or comprehension.