The Best Ways to Teach the Alphabet for Toddlers

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Introducing the alphabet for toddlers is a powerful journey filled with fun and excitement. As they take their first steps into language and literacy, it is important that we provide them with engaging and effective learning experiences. In this post, we will unveil eleven tried-and-tested methods to introduce and teach the alphabet to our little ones. From playful games and captivating songs to interactive activities and creative crafts, let’s embark on an adventure of learning that will spark a lifelong love for letters in our toddlers.

#1 Read Alphabet Books

Read alphabet books that feature each letter with matching pictures and words. This helps with letter-sound associations. Read these books over and over again. Repetition is important! 

Here are some books that I love:

• My First Library: Boxset of 10 Board Books for Kids

We love this set! It has been instrumental in helping lay the foundation for my daughter when she was very small. We read these books over and over and she now knows the content and it has increased her vocabulary drastically!

• Chicka Chicka Boom Boom (Board Book)

This is a classic! I like it as a board book because it’s toddler-friendly.

• My First ABC

This is a simple, but effective ABC picture book. It’s great for teaching the alphabet and vocabulary.

#2 Sing the ABC Song Together

The classic “Alphabet Song” is a fun and memorable way for toddlers to learn the order of letters.

#3 Use Alphabet Flashcards

Use cute colorful alphabet flashcards to show each letter. You can use these to teach letter recognition, letter sounds, and vocabulary. 

My daughter and I love doing flashcards together! She now asks me to do them with her because she enjoys it. I only teach a letter at a time and when she learns it, I add it to the pile of cards she knows and we review that pile. I also like to use flashcards to teach the letter sounds as well.

• Toddler Flash Cards Alphabet Flash Cards for Toddlers

#4 Teach a Letter of the Week

Focus on one letter each week or each day depending on your preferred pace. Introduce the letter and allow your toddler to practice identifying it through various activities, crafts, books, and games.

#5 Play Alphabet Songs and Videos on Youtube

Utilize educational songs and videos that teach the alphabet in a fun and interactive way. There are plenty of free resources available on Youtube. 

There are so many Youtube channels designed to teach the alphabet. Find the ones that you and your family like and don’t be afraid to play them over and over.

Here are some suggestions to get you started:

#6 Download Alphabet Learning Games on a Device

If your toddler gets screen time, it can be a great supplement to support their letter recognition. There are many games that are available for free that your child can play and learn various academic and logical skills.

This is a great way to keep your child learning even when you need a break or have a busy schedule.

Here are 5 Apps that we love and recommend:

• ABC Kids
• 123 Numbers
• Preschool Games
• Duolingo ABC
• Khan Academy Kids

#7 Hang an Alphabet Wall Chart

Display a colorful alphabet wall chart in your toddler’s play area or bedroom as a visual reference. This is a great way to keep the alphabet fresh in his/her mind.

I placed one in my daughter’s room and I notice that she looks at it and says the letters on her own. There are also times when she is playing in her room and I can hear her singing the ABC song. So cute!

• Educational Preschool Poster ABC Alphabet Poster for Toddlers 

#8 Make Letters with Play-Doh

Use Play-Doh to have fun creating letters with your little one. You can even use playdough mats with the shape of each letter and allow your child to form the letters on the mat with playdough.

Kids love Play-Doh, so this is a great way to have fun learning! You can also use shaving cream on a desk, table, or baking sheet for more letter fun.

#9 Play with Alphabet Toys

Alphabet toys are another fun way to teach the alphabet to toddlers. Your child will feel like they are playing and having fun- and they are, but they are also learning! These activities help solidify learning because children are learning by doing.

Here are 4 toys that we found to be effective:

• VTech Tote and Go Laptop
• VTech Ultimate Alphabet Activity Cube
• VTech Little Apps Tablet
• Leapfrog Learn And Groove Musical Table

#10 Color Alphabet Coloring Sheets

Alphabet coloring sheets are a great and simple way to reinforce what your child is learning. Coloring sheets can be used at home and on the go. When your toddler colors alphabet coloring sheets, you can hang them up in the room or on the fridge for constant review! 

#11 Practice Letter Tracing

Provide opportunities for your toddler to trace letters using their fingers, crayons, or a pencil. This helps them develop letter recognition and motor skills. There are also digital resources available for letter-tracing practice. 

Final Thoughts

Remember that repetition is key. As you teach each letter individually, give your child plenty of opportunities to review them. He/She should see each letter that you teach multiple times throughout the week. Even after your child has learned the letters, continue to review them to keep them fresh in their mind.