Check whether the child knows the relevant letter sounds, then model blending from left to right and provide supported practice with decodable words.
Break the task into parts
Observe what happens before, during, and after the difficulty. Use a small amount of targeted practice, then return to meaningful connected text.
When to get individual help
If the difficulty is persistent, significant, or causing concern, talk with the child's teacher or a qualified reading professional. A web article cannot assess or diagnose an individual child.
Keep exploring
When a Child Struggles With ReadingUse the observed reading difficulty to choose a useful next step, without trying to diagnose a child online.Phonics for ParentsUnderstand phonics, letter-sound relationships, decoding, blending, and how these skills connect.Foundational Reading SkillsSee how sound awareness, phonics, decoding, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension fit together.