Commencing from 1st February 2008, the children in our Centre have an opportunity to attend a new enrichment programme using special needs techniques and methods, namely :
“Special Reading and Phonics Programme”
This unique programme is specially designed and conducted by the Principal of Sunshine kidz, Mrs Sheehan-Oliveiro Betty Caroline. It has been proven to be an effective way to teach reading.
Over 180 research studies to date have proven that phonics is the BEST WAY to teach reading to all students. They also have shown that phonics is the ONLY WAY to teach reading to students with dyslexia, a condition related to poor reading, and other learning disabilities.
Some children have auditory discrimination or visual perception problems. Some of these symptoms include,
1. Spatial confusion - unable to differentiate left-right, on self, other, or paper;
2. Confuses letter pairs as b-d, m-w, p-q. Confuses words such as was-saw, on-no.
Mrs Sheehan-Oliveiro Betty Caroline of Sunshinekidz suggested the following exercises to help improve directionality and reduce reversals:
- Simplify tasks so only one new discrimination is made at a time.
- Make each simple discrimination automatic before the next one is introduced. Overteach 'b", then overteach 'd", before presenting both together.
- Each discrimination that causes repeated errors should be worked with by itself until the problem is overcome.
- Trace, then write, the confused letter or word and pronounce it as written.
- Use short frequent practice periods. Lengthen the time between practice sessions as the material is retained.
- If the child is confused about his own left/right, use a ring, watch, ribbon or band on his writing arm. Color cue side of desk or paper or word as a starting place.
- Gradually increase the difficulty of material to discriminate. If errors are made, go back to simpler practice.