Goal
Build confidence blending initial consonant clusters — the kind that trip up early readers and feel brilliant once they click.
You'll need
- CCVC Word Cards
- Phonics CCVC Words List
How to do it
Pick a word card — "stop", "clip", "frog" are good starting points. Say the first two sounds slowly together: st, cl, fr. Then add the rest: st-o-p... "stop".
If they find it tricky, break it right down — "s-t-o-p" — then speed up gradually until it blends. That slow-to-fast trick is genuinely useful and kids often enjoy the "robot voice" version.
Work through a handful of words from the cards or list. These are a real step up from simple CVC words, so make a fuss when they get one. They've earned it.
Grab our resources
Print our ccvc word cards and phonics ccvc words list to get started.
