For parents and caregivers · Pre-K & kindergarten

Reading together, one small step at a time

Start with letters and sounds, or share a Sam story if your child is already joining sounds into words.

1. Letters & sounds

You read the story. Invite your child to point to the letter and try its sound.
Join sounds when they are familiar. After A and M, write am. Say each sound slowly, then slide them together. Try Sam after S.
Take your time. Reread favorites. Try a Sam story when your child is comfortable joining a few sounds into words.

Share the reading. Read the longer left-page text; invite your child to try the short right-page lines.
Help with unfamiliar words. Say the word for your child so you can keep enjoying the story together.
Reread when helpful. A finished book records time spent reading, not a reading level. Return to letters and sounds whenever useful.

Keep practice short and comfortable. Story time fits alongside either path.