How Little Wandle Phonics supports early reading

10 ways Little Wandle can support early reading:

1. A Structured Path to Success

Little Wandle teaches phonics in a clear, step-by-step sequence, starting with the easiest sounds and gradually building to more complex ones. This structured approach means children are never overwhelmed — they learn to read at a pace that supports success and builds confidence.

2. Fully Aligned with National Expectations

The program is approved by the UK Department for Education, meaning it meets the highest standards for how children should learn to read. Parents can be confident their child is being taught using the most up-to-date, research-based methods.

3. Daily Practice Reinforces Learning

Your child will have daily phonics lessons and regular reading sessions, which help them remember and apply what they’ve learned. Just like learning to ride a bike, daily practice makes all the difference in helping reading feel natural.

4. Books That Match Their Learning

Children read specially selected “decodable books” — these contain only the letters and sounds they’ve already been taught. This ensures they can read successfully, which builds self-belief and a love of reading early on.

5. Familiar Routines Support Learning

Children thrive on routine. Each Little Wandle lesson follows a predictable structure, which helps your child focus on the learning itself rather than working out what to do. This consistency is especially helpful for children who may be anxious or need additional support.

6. Building Vocabulary and Understanding

It’s not just about sounding out words. Little Wandle includes plenty of opportunities to talk about stories, ask questions, and learn new words — helping your child become not just a reader, but a thoughtful one.

7. Core Reading Skills Taught Explicitly

Key skills like blending (sounding out and putting words together) and segmenting (breaking words into sounds to spell them) are taught directly and practiced often. These are crucial for both reading and writing.

8. Progress is Checked — and Supported

Teachers use regular assessments to check how well your child is doing. If extra support is needed, the program provides targeted interventions to help children keep up, not catch up — so no child is left behind.

9. Designed for All Learners

The materials are inclusive, meaning children with additional learning needs or those learning English as a second language can access the same high-quality instruction, adapted to suit their needs.

10. You’re Involved Every Step of the Way

Little Wandle provides guidance and resources for parents, including videos, sound mats, and reading tips. You'll understand how your child is being taught and feel equipped to help them practice at home — without stress.