I recently started a project where the children drew pictures for various CVC words. I then compiled their artwork into small booklets, organized by middle vowel sounds. Because the kids drew the illustrations themselves, they were instantly invested and eager to read their own creations!

Every day after the summer morning care, I sit down with each kid for individual reading time. It is pure joy to watch them successfully blend the sounds they learned through our daily phonics recitations. They are no longer just repeating isolated letter sounds—they are actively putting them together to decode real words.

This hands-on practice has also helped immensely with our spelling activities. Previously, a few children would simply copy their friends’ answers during writing time. Now, after practicing with the booklets, those same kids are trying to write all by themselves. Watching them shift from copying to independent spelling has been incredibly rewarding.

To keep everyone challenged, I differentiated the project for our higher grade students. Instead of single words, their booklets feature simple sentences designed to improve sight word recognition. Combining familiar CVC words with high-frequency sight words allows them to build reading fluency at their own pace. I even put a simple CVC story on the final page with a few comprehension questions.

At the end of the day, I share these milestones with parents, who are thrilled to hear about their children’s enthusiasm. This positive feedback has dramatically boosted the kids’ motivation. They feel so proud of their progress and walk into the classroom the next morning eager to pick up a booklet and read again.