Insights

Supporting Struggling Readers with Special Education Needs

Children with SEND can often face additional barriers in learning to read. These may include difficulties with phonics, decoding, comprehension or fluency. They may also struggle with processing and retaining information, making it harder for them to make connections between words and concepts. Additionally, some children may have physical disabilities that affect their ability to hold books or turn pages.

Identifying the Needs
It is important to identify the specific needs of each individual child as they may vary greatly. Some pupils may require multi-sensory approaches to learning, while others may need assistive technology to support their reading. It is also important to consider any emotional or behavioural challenges that a child with SEND may face, as these can impact their ability to focus and engage in reading activities.

Tips for Supporting Struggling Readers

  1. Keep an open dialogue with the pupil’s parents or caregivers to better understand their individual needs and any challenges they may face at home.
  2. Use a variety of teaching strategies, such as visual aids, hands-on activities, and technology-based learning, to keep the child engaged and interested in reading.
  3. Incorporate multi-sensory techniques into your lessons to help students make connections between words and concepts. For example, use hand gestures or actions to represent different sounds and words.
  4. Encourage children to use assistive technology, such as text-to-speech software or audiobooks, to support their reading. This can help them overcome physical challenges and stay engaged in the learning process.
  5. Provide opportunities for pupils to practise reading in a safe and supportive environment, where they can make mistakes without fear of judgement. This will help build their confidence and motivation.
  6. Use positive reinforcement and praise to acknowledge a child’s progress and efforts in reading. This will help boost their self-esteem and encourage them to continue improving.
  7. Collaborate with other educators and specialists, such as special education teachers or speech therapists, to develop personalised strategies for supporting struggling readers with SEND.

By understanding the challenges faced by children with SEND and implementing practical strategies, we can provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all pupils. With patience, flexibility, and collaboration, we can help struggling readers with SEND overcome their barriers and achieve success in reading. 

What is Fonetti and how can it help struggling readers with SEND?
Fonetti is a reading platform designed for read-aloud practice. It has been meticulously developed to nurture children’s oracy and fluency skills, enabling them to become confident, independent readers. 

Fonetti provides invaluable support and instant feedback to engage children with SEND. Clear progress tracking and milestone achievements motivate children to read more and strive towards their next targets. By incorporating gamification, Fonetti captivates tech-savvy children, fostering a love for reading even among reluctant readers. Through visual reading, reading aloud, and listening for accuracy, we facilitate optimal knowledge retention, enabling children to enhance their literacy skills at an accelerated pace.

The fear of reading aloud in front of peers and adults increases anxiety and can overwhelm struggling readers, particularly those with SEND. Fonetti is an independent reading tool that creates a safe space for children to build confidence and make progress without judgement or the need to wait for help.

Fonetti supports dyslexia-friendly fonts and allows pausing for shorter attention spans, offering an inclusive alternative to print. When used within schools, children are unaware of their reading level in the app to prevent discouragement from peers.

In addition to improving reading skills, Fonetti supports children in regulating emotions and mental health. Books allow children to develop imagination, curiosity, and better understanding of emotions.

Reading aloud with Fonetti keeps children focused, helping them regulate their emotions and enhance their overall well-being.

Posted in SEND, Insights, Reading

Teaching Reading Across the Curriculum in Primary Schools

As educators, one of our main objectives is to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their future endeavours. While reading may seem like a subject that falls under the English curriculum, it is actually a vital skill that is crucial in all subjects. That is why it is imperative that we start teaching reading across the curriculum in primary school.

What is Reading Across the Curriculum?
Reading is not just about decoding words on a page, but also about comprehending and analysing information. By incorporating reading into other subjects such as maths, science, and foundation subjects, students are able to practise their reading skills in a variety of contexts. This not only enhances their understanding of the subject matter but also helps them develop critical thinking skills.

Why is it Important?

Develops Critical Thinking Skills
Reading across the curriculum requires children to actively engage with texts, which helps develop critical thinking skills. By analysing and interpreting written information from different subjects, children learn to think critically and make connections between different ideas and concepts.

Enhances Vocabulary and Language Proficiency
Exposing children to a range of subject-specific texts can greatly enhance their vocabulary and language proficiency. By reading texts from different areas of the curriculum, students are exposed to a variety of terminology and language styles, which can significantly improve their overall communication skills.

Fosters Lifelong Learning
Reading is a lifelong skill that extends beyond the classroom. When students learn how to read critically and effectively across all subjects, they develop a love for learning and become independent learners. This helps them to continue learning and growing even after they leave school.

Prepares Students for Future Academic and Career Success
In today’s information-driven society, the ability to read critically is essential for academic and career success. By teaching reading across the curriculum, we are equipping students with a crucial skill that will benefit them in higher education and their future careers.

How Can We Implement Reading Across the Curriculum?

  • Incorporate Texts from Different Subjects
    • As educators, we can incorporate subject-specific texts into our lessons to expose students to a range of materials. This can include news articles, biographies, diary entries, and more.
  • Teach Reading Strategies
    • It is important to teach reading strategies explicitly across all subjects. These can include skimming and scanning, making predictions, summarising, and more. By teaching these strategies, students can become more efficient readers.
  • Collaborate with Other Teachers
    • Collaboration between teachers and speaking to subject leaders is key to successfully implementing reading across the curriculum. By working together, educators can create cross-curricular activities that promote reading skills in their respective subject areas.

How can you use Fonetti to support reading across the curriculum?
Fonetti offers a wide range of books that cover various subjects vital to the curriculum, including Geography, Science, Maths, and PSHE. These resources provide comprehensive support, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience for children.

If a specific subject is being taught and you wish all students to read a related book, our school portal allows you to assign the book to the entire class. This eliminates the need to purchase multiple copies, giving all children access to the curriculum-based book. Once everyone has read the book, you can facilitate topic-related discussions to further enrich their learning.

Posted in Reading, Insights

Celebrating International Children’s Book Day

International Children’s Book Day is an annual event celebrated on (or around) April 2nd to promote the love for reading among children. It was established in 1967 by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) to encourage children to read more and develop a strong foundation for literacy skills.

The date, April 2nd, was chosen as it coincides with the birthday of Hans Christian Andersen, the famous Danish author known for his fairy tales such as “The Little Mermaid” and “The Ugly Duckling”. Andersen’s stories have been translated into numerous languages and have inspired generations of children.

On this day, various activities are organised by schools, libraries, bookstores and other organisations to celebrate the joy of reading. Children are encouraged to explore different genres of books, from picture books and graphic novels to chapter books and non-fiction. They are also introduced to authors from different countries and cultures, giving them a glimpse into the diverse world of literature.

One of the main objectives of International Children’s Book Day is to promote cultural understanding through literature. Children’s books have the power to transcend borders and connect people from different backgrounds. By reading books from diverse cultures, children can gain a better understanding and appreciation of the world around them.

Apart from promoting literacy and cultural understanding, International Children’s Book Day also aims to instil a love for books in children. Reading has numerous benefits for children, including improving vocabulary, concentration, and imagination. It also helps them develop critical thinking skills and empathy.

In addition to the activities organised on April 2nd, IBBY also selects a different country each year to be the focus of International Children’s Book Day. This country is then highlighted through events and promotions throughout the year, showcasing their literature and promoting cultural exchange.

Overall, International Children’s Book Day serves as a reminder of the importance of reading in a child’s development and celebrates the power of books to educate, entertain, and inspire young minds. Let us continue to spread the love for reading among children and help them discover the wonders that lie within the pages of a book. 

Happy International Children’s Book Day! 

Posted in News, Insights, Reading

Unlocking a World of Reading: Engaging Children to Read at Home

In the age of digital distractions and with the bombardment of various forms of entertainment, reading often takes a backseat in the lives of children. This poses a significant challenge for educators who are passionate about fostering a love for reading beyond the classroom. With educators constantly searching for innovative ways to engage young readers, the discussion surrounding the most effective homework assignment for children is more pertinent than ever. It’s here where the pattern  is shifting, and digital resources like Fonetti, the read-aloud app, are coming to the forefront of the conversation, offering a fresh approach to cultivating young readers.

The Power of Reading Aloud: More Than Just Words on a Page
Reading aloud has long been regarded as a fundamental practice in early literacy. The benefits extend beyond vocabulary expansion and comprehension; the act of listening to fluently read language helps young readers develop a sense of story and narrative as well as builds a positive association with books. However, in a fast-paced educational environment, the tradition of reading aloud could be undervalued or even neglected. But what if we could encapsulate the essence of reading aloud in a device that children already love? Fonetti does just that. It not only listens to children as they read, providing real-time feedback, but it also engages them in fun “challenge” sessions, turning the solitary act of reading into an exciting, shared experience.

The Struggle to Keep the Story Going: Engaging Children to Read at Home
Engaging children to read at home is an age-old struggle that has only magnified in recent years. The inclusion of novel distractions in children’s day-to-day life has made the simple act of reading a considerable challenge for teachers and parents. Conventional book tasks frequently fall victim to being labelled just another ‘chore’ by children. As educators, we must explore how to make reading assignments not just palatable but enjoyable. Fonetti provides a unique opportunity: with its real-time feedback, children feel empowered to work on their reading skills independently, knowing they have a virtual companion cheerleading their efforts.

Bridging the Gap: Access to Independent Reading for Children
Ensuring that every child has access to independent reading is a cornerstone of literacy development. The withering interest in reading often starts not from a lack of appreciation for stories but from an inability to access materials that captivate the reader. Libraries and classrooms can only do so much. What about the child at home, looking for something to quench their intellectual curiosity? Fonetti eradicates physical barriers to reading by offering a vast library of stories that cater to a wide range of interests. By giving children the option to select from a diverse pool of content, the app encourages exploration and discovery, all the while fostering a habitually curious mind.

The Digital Divide: Bridging Educational Inequalities
A discrepancy in educational resources, known as the ‘digital divide,’ prevails predominantly due to socioeconomic factors. While some students benefit from an array of learning tools, others lag behind. Fonetti aims to rectify this imbalance. Through its innovative reading approach, it fosters practice and enhancement without regard to a child’s economic circumstances. By employing AI to evaluate reading behaviours, children receive tailored assistance, transforming progress from a mere possibility to a definite outcome.

Success Stories: Turning the Page on Digital Learning
Across the globe, educators are witnessing the transformation in students’ reading habits, thanks to Fonetti. Success stories abound, where children previously disinterested in reading find joy in picking up a book or, in this case, a tablet. The app’s AI-driven platform not only provides data and performance metrics but also offers a gamified experience that makes reading interactive and competitive, thereby allaying the boredom often associated with homework assignments.

Innovative digital solutions like Fonetti do not replace the traditional approach to reading but enhance it. By adopting new technologies, educators can offer children opportunities they may not otherwise access, encouraging them to engage in reading at home.

The book is our compass, but it is the reader who charts the course, and with the support of tools like Fonetti, we help turn another page in the endless adventure of learning.

Posted in Reading, Insights, Literacy

How EdTech Is Transforming the Classroom

The use of technology in education has become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more schools are incorporating it into their curriculum. From interactive whiteboards to educational apps, there are endless possibilities for how technology can enhance learning experiences.

Let’s dive into a few of the many advantages that arise when educational technology (ed tech) is seamlessly integrated into schools. 

Enhancing Teaching and Learning
One of the most significant benefits of using educational technology is its ability to enhance teaching and learning. With the use of digital tools, teachers can create interactive and engaging lessons that capture students’ attention and interest. Such lessons allow for a more dynamic learning experience, making it easier for students to retain information.

Moreover, technology provides teachers with a wide variety of resources and materials to supplement their lessons. With access to online educational platforms, teachers can find a vast array of videos, simulations, and other interactive content to enrich their teaching. This diversity of resources allows for more personalised learning experiences that cater to students’ specific needs and learning styles.

Promoting Self-directed Learning
Another advantage of educational technology is its ability to promote self-directed learning. With access to online resources, students can take control of their education and explore topics that interest them beyond the traditional curriculum. This not only allows for a more personalised learning experience but also encourages students to take ownership of their education and develop critical thinking skills.

Moreover, technology provides students with the opportunity to learn at their own pace. With access to recorded lessons, online tutorials, and other digital resources, students can revisit concepts they find challenging without feeling rushed or left behind.

Preparing Students for the Future
As technology continues to advance, it is becoming increasingly important for students to be equipped with digital literacy skills. By incorporating educational technology into schools, students can develop these skills and be better prepared for the future workforce.

Moreover, with the use of online learning platforms and resources, students can also gain experience in using various tools and technologies commonly used in different industries. This exposure allows them to develop a better understanding of how technology can be applied in real-world scenarios.

The BETT Awards, also known as the British Educational Training and Technology Awards, is an annual event that celebrates the use of technology in education. The purpose of the BETT Awards is to showcase innovative products and services that improve teaching and learning outcomes. It also aims to recognise the efforts of educators, schools, and organisations in using technology to enhance education.

BETT is one of the biggest events in the year for Fonetti and we are delighted to be nominated for the Class Aid & Educator award. Our revolutionary approach to reading has been proven to improve reading fluency and confidence in children as well as providing teachers with vital information and saving them time in the classroom. 

We are eagerly anticipating the upcoming event, eagerly waiting for the chance to connect with the remarkable individuals behind the extraordinary educational technology products being presented. From innovative learning platforms to cutting-edge digital tools, this event promises to showcase the latest advancements in the field. We cannot wait to engage in insightful conversations, gain valuable insights, and explore opportunities for collaboration. It’s an event that promises to inspire and ignite our passion for educational technology.

Posted in EdTech, Awards, Insights, Technology

Supporting Neurodivergent Children over the Christmas Period

As we approach the holiday season, it’s important to remember that this can be a challenging time for neurodivergent children. The change in routine, increased sensory stimuli and social expectations can be overwhelming for them. As parents and educators, we want to support these children during this time and ensure they have an enjoyable holiday season. 

Here are some tips to support neurodivergent children over the Christmas period.

Create a Safe Space 
During family gatherings or events, it’s important to create a safe space for neurodivergent children. This can be a designated quiet room or area where they can go to take a break from social interactions and sensory overload. This will allow them to recharge and feel more comfortable in their environment.

Communicate Expectations 
Communication is key when it comes to supporting neurodivergent children during the holiday season. Let them know ahead of time what to expect, such as who will be attending events or any changes in routine. This will help reduce anxiety and prepare them for social interactions.

Use Visual Aids 
For children with autism or other neurodivergent conditions, visual aids can be extremely helpful. Use calendars or picture schedules to help them understand what’s happening and when. This will provide a sense of predictability and control, which can reduce stress and anxiety.

Incorporate Familiar Activities 
During the holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in trying new activities or traditions. However, for neurodivergent children, it can be comforting to incorporate familiar activities into the holiday routine. This can be a favourite game, movie or tradition that they look forward to each year.

Technology
Utilising technology can be incredibly beneficial for neurodivergent children during the festive season. By incorporating specially designed apps that aid in maintaining focus and attention, we can effectively promote a sense of security, well-being, and inclusivity. For instance, apps like Fonetti provide a unique platform that helps children regulate their emotions, offering a captivating focal point for their attention and instilling a sense of purpose and accomplishment as they engage with interactive stories.

Seek Professional Support 
If you notice your child struggling during the holiday season, seek support from a professional. A therapist or counsellor can help your child cope with the changes and provide strategies to manage any challenges they may face. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help.

With these tips in mind, we can support neurodivergent children during the holiday season and ensure they have a happy and enjoyable Christmas. Let’s make this time of year inclusive for all children.

Posted in SEND, Insights, Reading

Mind the Gap! Studies Show a 4,000 Word Vocabulary Gap Exists

Language is a gateway, unlocking the world of reading and igniting our imagination. It amplifies the thrill of writing and empowers us to delve into new realms. Moreover, the influence language can have on an individual’s confidence and wellbeing is significant and has a great impact on academic success. It serves as the foundation for progress, influencing academic achievement from primary to secondary years, shaping self-esteem and behaviour, and profoundly influencing a child’s future success.

What is the vocabulary gap?
The vocabulary gap, which refers to differences in word knowledge and usage, has been observed to be strongly influenced by individuals’ economic backgrounds. Studies have shown that individuals from disadvantaged economic backgrounds tend to have a smaller vocabulary compared to those from more privileged backgrounds. Department for Education research suggests that, by the age of seven, the gap in the vocabulary known by children in the top and bottom quartiles is something like 4,000 words (children in the top quartile know around 7,000 words).

This disparity in vocabulary can have a significant impact on various aspects of individuals’ lives, including educational attainment, employment opportunities, and social interactions. It is therefore crucial to address this issue and work towards reducing the vocabulary gap to promote equality and improve overall language proficiency.

How does the vocabulary gap affect education?
Language is undeniably a critical aspect of academic success. Without a broad vocabulary, the process of learning itself can suffer greatly, especially in fields like reading and writing where vocabulary plays a crucial role. A wide range of words and expressions aids in effective communication, comprehension, and expression of ideas, enabling students to excel and fully engage with educational materials.

In addition to a wide vocabulary being of paramount importance in reading and writing, it also plays a significant role in various other areas of the curriculum. A strong command of words not only enhances one’s ability to comprehend and express ideas effectively, but it also fosters critical thinking, improves communication skills, and enables students to engage more deeply with the subject matter across different areas. Therefore, emphasising the development of a rich vocabulary is crucial in nurturing well-rounded and intellectually curious learners.

What impact does the vocabulary gap have on mental well-being?
When children have a limited vocabulary, it can have a detrimental impact on their mental well-being. Without a wide range of words to draw from, children may struggle to effectively express themselves, which can lead to frustration, self-esteem issues, and even behavioural problems. It is important for parents, caregivers, and educators to recognise the significance of nurturing a child’s language development and providing opportunities for vocabulary enrichment. By doing so, we can empower children to better communicate their thoughts, feelings, and needs, promoting their overall emotional development.

How can we close the vocabulary gap?

Talk, talk, talk!

Engaging in conversations with children and consciously incorporating new words not only facilitates effective communication but also serves as a powerful tool for expanding their vocabulary. By actively encouraging linguistic exploration and fostering a nurturing environment, adults can empower children to develop a rich and diverse word bank, aiding them in their language learning journey.

Read aloud
Reading plays a crucial and indispensable role in facilitating vocabulary expansion. By engaging in reading activities, children are not only exposed to a broader spectrum of written words but also have the opportunity to delve into the intricacies and nuances of language that are typically not encountered in everyday conversation. This exposure enriches their linguistic abilities, enhances their comprehension skills, and fosters a lifelong love for literature and learning.

According to the Oxford Language Report, in a survey they carried out 93% of primary teachers and 95% of secondary school teachers believe lack of time spent reading for pleasure is a root cause of the word gap.

Using Fonetti to help close the gap
Closing the word gap entails nurturing children’s love for reading, a tricky task when they associate it with difficulty and harbour a dislike for it. Fonetti offers an excellent solution, captivating young minds not only through its technological allure, but also by providing an extensive range of genres that cater to every child’s interests.

Fonetti employs gamification techniques to foster children’s motivation for reading. By integrating interactive elements, it stimulates their interest and encourages active engagement in the learning process. In addition to this, children with shorter attention spans can pause the book at any time and not lose what they have achieved. 

For children struggling with reading, the apprehension of reading aloud in front of peers and adults can be nerve-wracking. Fonetti creates a safe space where children can independently read aloud, benefiting from instant, constructive feedback.

Through Fonetti, we can bridge the word gap and empower children on their journey to becoming confident and enthusiastic readers.

Posted in Literacy, Insights, Reading, Research

Empowering Children with English as an Additional Language

In England, English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners are defined as those who have been ‘exposed to a language at home that is known or believed to be other than English’ (Department for Education, 2019). In primary schools across England, as many as 975,238 children were reported as speaking English as an Additional Language. Furthermore, an additional 601,238 students in secondary schools were recorded as EAL (School Census, 2021).

Making an impact
Supporting children with EAL in the classroom is vital for creating an inclusive and equitable learning environment. Educators can make a significant impact by providing targeted support, resources, and strategies to help these students develop their language skills and bridge any gaps in their understanding. This not only promotes academic success but also fosters a strong sense of belonging and cultural appreciation. 

Supporting EAL learners with reading
Reading is a complex skill to learn, especially when you are trying to read in a language that isn’t your first. As educators, we have a responsibility to ensure that we provide children with EAL the necessary resources and support they require in order to succeed. By offering tailored materials and fostering a supportive learning environment, we can help these students overcome language barriers and develop strong reading skills in English.

Reading Aloud
Encouraging children to read aloud is not only one of the best ways to assess their decoding skills and overall reading development, but it also plays a vital role in supporting children with EAL in expanding their vocabulary. When children read aloud, they engage in the active practice of word recognition, pronunciation, and comprehension. This multi-sensory approach provides them with a deeper understanding of the language, facilitating their language acquisition journey and fostering confidence in their linguistic abilities.

Using Fonetti to support your EAL pupils
Fonetti is a classroom tool that can play a crucial role in supporting children with EAL on their reading journey. With its specialised features, Fonetti offers a comprehensive solution to boost language learning and literacy skills. The Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) system recognises complex reading patterns and understands multiple accent groups, including those where English is an additional accent. 

Outlined below are three ways to support children with EAL:

  • Pronunciation & Vocabulary Development
    • Ensuring proper pronunciation and vocabulary development is crucial for children, especially those with English as an additional language. Language serves as the foundation for all learning, and without it, children are immediately disadvantaged.
    • Children read aloud to Fonetti. When words are read correctly, the advanced speech recognition turns them green. If a word is skipped or misread, it turns subtly grey and children can double tap a word if they get stuck for an audible clue. This enables children to hear how the word is pronounced. Children are then able to repeat the word back to Fonetti.
    • The multi-sensory approach greatly benefits children with EAL in their reading development journey. It enhances their learning and comprehension by engaging various senses and promoting a holistic understanding of written language.
    • In addition to this, Fonetti introduces children to a broad range of vocabulary. By encouraging them to read new words aloud, we enhance their ability to retain and remember these words. 
  • Confidence Booster
    • Children with EAL often experience anxiety while reading aloud, especially when facing the scrutiny of adults and classmates. This anxiety can even lead to a dislike for reading. Fonetti offers a safe environment for children to read, providing instant and constructive feedback to facilitate their progress. Here, they can solely focus on improving their reading skills without worrying about judgement.
    • Fonetti also serves as a valuable resource for reluctant readers, helping ignite a love for reading. Through incentives and acknowledgment, Fonetti enhances fluency, accuracy, vocabulary, and confidence, making the reading journey an enriching one for every child.
  • Parental Support
    • As educators, it is of utmost importance that we collaborate closely with parents of children with English as an Additional Language (EAL). By equipping them with the necessary tools to support their children’s learning at home, we ensure that these students receive the optimal preparation for academic success. By doing so, we foster a conducive environment where children with EAL can thrive.
    • Fonetti can be utilised by children not only at school but also at home, offering them the chance to read English books aloud and receive immediate, constructive feedback, even if their parents are not proficient in English. This valuable tool empowers young learners to improve their reading skills while fostering a love for the language.
Posted in EAL, Insights

Why we should all be “Reading for Pleasure”

The significance of reading for pleasure is widely acknowledged and emphasised. Schools promote the importance of allocating time for leisure reading, while parents are encouraged to actively support their children’s reading habits at home.  However, why does this subject receive such extensive attention? In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of reading for pleasure and uncover its impact on children.

What does reading for pleasure actually mean?
Reading for pleasure is a personal choice that brings us joy. Sometimes, we’re initially intrigued by recommendations, but we keep reading because we’re genuinely fascinated by the material.

Reading for pleasure or reading for enjoyment goes beyond what teachers expect, sparking curiosity and bringing pure delight from reading itself. 

What’s the big deal?
Reading for pleasure unlocks a treasure trove of new worlds for children, igniting their imagination to embark on captivating journeys, encounter fascinating characters, and delve into fresh ideas. Interestingly, not only does reading for pleasure enrich their minds, but it also nurtures their well-being and empathy. It cultivates a deeper understanding of their own identity while offering valuable insights into the diverse perspectives of the world. 

According to the DfE, ‘Reading for pleasure is a key indicator of a child’s future success. When children learn to read at an early age, they have greater general knowledge and a wider range of vocabulary, their reading is more fluent, and they have improved attention spans.’ 

How can we encourage children to read for pleasure?
Encouraging a love for reading means helping children truly appreciate the sheer joy it brings. So, it’s important that we help them grasp the essence of this joyful pursuit.

Below are 5 top tips to inspire reading for pleasure:

  1. Allow children to choose their own booksAll reading is valuable to children’s development and by giving children the ownership of choosing the books they read based on their interests, they are more likely to enjoy reading.
  2. Regular book talkTalk about the books your child is reading and ask them questions. If your child is really engaged and interested in the book, you will probably find that they won’t stop talking about it once you have initiated the discussion! 
  3. Get caught readingLet your child catch you reading to show them that reading is also something adults do. We are our children’s role models and if they see us doing something, they will usually copy.
  4. Build reading into your routineChildren thrive when they have a routine so by setting a certain time in the day for your child to read will create good habits. 
  5. Use technology to capture children’s interest in booksUsing tablets as a medium for accessing literature can really boost children’s enjoyment and confidence in reading. For most, using a tablet is a fun activity, which makes it a powerful tool to have a positive impact on their reading journey.

To conclude…
Fonetti is an exceptional tool for igniting a love for reading. With access to a vast array of books, children are bound to discover one that captivates their interest. The incorporation of technology and gamification is sure to engage even the most tech-savvy youngsters, fueling their passion for reading. As parents and teachers, you can effortlessly monitor your child’s reading choices, fostering meaningful discussions about the books they explore.

Posted in Reading, Insights

The Importance of a Balanced Diet of Screen Time

Each parent has pondered the impact of screen time on their children, contemplating both duration and potential benefits. It can be challenging to navigate something that was absent during our childhood and beyond our parents’ experience. Without a frame of reference, comparisons are elusive, making it difficult to grasp and comprehend fully. Following a captivating interview with Amanda Gummer on the BBC, this blog delves into the ways in which screen time can effectively aid children’s development.

A Balanced Diet
Just like anything in life, a well-balanced diet is crucial. The same goes for a child’s play. While it is crucial to promote engaging and imaginative child-led play, known as the ‘broccoli’ of play, we should not completely deny them other play experiences and screen time can have a place in that diet. It is important to strike a balance and offer a variety of play opportunities to enrich their development and enjoyment.

Amanda Gummer recently shared an incredibly insightful image illustrating the components of a well-rounded play diet. It provides valuable guidance on how to foster a healthy and balanced approach to play. During her recent interview, she expressed that parents shouldn’t feel guilty for letting their children have screen time. She also emphasised the value of incorporating high-quality screen time judiciously, acknowledging its rightful place. Fonetti not only provides purposeful screen time to aid reading development, it also incorporates gamification to make reading fun and interactive.

Guidance is Key
Regardless of our personal preferences, technology has become an integral part of our daily lives. We therefore need to embrace it and teach our children how to use it responsibly and safely. Without clear guidance, children may struggle to distinguish between what is appropriate and what is not. It is crucial that as adults, we empower our children to harness the potential of technology in a beneficial manner by making them aware of what is suitable and what isn’t. 

Fonetti and other educational apps provide an immersive screen time experience for children, seamlessly blending learning with enjoyment. By guiding children to choose the right apps, adults can ensure that screen time is not only enjoyable but also beneficial for their development.

Active & Passive
Screen time has often been negatively portrayed, and I do agree, there are certain aspects that may not be beneficial for our children. Nonetheless, there exist incredible opportunities for children to utilise their screen time in productive and meaningful ways. Screen time can be split into two parts:

  • Active Screen Time

This is a time when screen time is utilised to enrich children’s learning and foster cognitive development. Fonetti exemplifies how children can utilise technology to boost their reading abilities and accelerate their progress. Through platforms like Fonetti, children not only acquire knowledge but also derive pleasure from embracing technology’s marvels.

  • Passive Screen Time

This is when children are not having to think at all and are passively looking at a screen. This can include watching TV or looking at social media. There is no critical thinking taking place and children are just simply absorbing what is on the screen.

In Summary…
When it comes to children and screen time, it is important to approach the topic with consideration rather than demonization. Screen time can be beneficial for educational purposes and can have a place in child play, if used appropriately. Fonetti strongly supports productive screen time as an opportunity for children to enhance their learning through technology. Today’s children are tech-savvy, and we should embrace this by exploring alternative methods of learning that incorporate technology.

Posted in Insights, EdTech, Literacy, Reading