How do you teach a child to read?

When children see adults reading everything from newspapers, magazines, and books to menus, letters, email, etc., they begin to form an idea of the importance/ the purpose(s) of reading. Helping children learn to recite and then identify the alphabet letters are first steps before exposing them to sight words and simple phonics (sounding out words). Word families and rhymes teach children letter sounds, blends, and patterns. Providing pictures with the words and simple context clues also help in the early stages of reading. Reading and discussing fun, interesting books with children on a daily basis builds confidence and reading skills.