If your child is ready to take the leap to start reading, you may want to get them started with Hooked on Phonics. Not only is the program researched based and designed with the help of educators and parents alike, but it has helped over 5 million children learn to read. If that’s the case, then you might be wondering how to get Hooked on Phonics.
Learning to read is one of those skills that has been proven to have a huge impact on how successful you are in life. That’s why getting started early is essential. Read on for a quick guide on how to get Hooked on Phonics both physically and digitally.
Get Signed Up with Hooked on Phonics
Getting signed up with Hooked on Phonics is as simple as setting up a membership on the website. However, the program has changed over the years, so you will want to pay attention to what you are signing up for so that you aren’t disappointed.
When you sign up online, you can typically expect a membership for the Hooked on Phonics App and Practice Packs program. This is a comprehensive program that covers reading from Pre-K to early 2nd grade. This is done as a combination of digital learning and physical materials.
Each month, you will receive a set of materials in the mail that includes a workbook, stickers, and 2-3 storybooks. These materials are meant to be used in conjunction with the Hooked on Phonics app.
The program is broken up into two sections: Pre-Reader and Learn to Read. The practices pack you receive, as well as the material covered on the app, will vary depending on the section you choose for your child.
Choose Pre-Reader vs. Learn to Read
When signing up for Hooked on Phonics, you will need to decide which level you kid at.
The Pre-Reader level is meant for kids who aren’t quite ready to start reading. The material focuses on learning the name of the letters and their corresponding sounds. You can see a sample of the practice pack workbooks here.
The Learn to Read level is for children that know the sounds and are ready to start putting them together. These lessons introduce blends and digraphs and teach kids how to put letters together to make words.
If you feel like you’ve chosen the wrong level for your child, you can always change the level of your next Practice Pack by clicking on Manage Your Subscription from the Hooked on Phonics dashboard. From here, you can also add additional practice packs or change the frequency of shipments.
Download the Hooked on Phonics App
While you may remember the classic Hooked on Phonics books from the 90s, we now live in a digital age. And Hooked on Phonics has done a good job keeping up with the times. The Hooked on Phonics app can be downloaded to your Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS device.
The app houses over 200 songs, lessons, eBooks, and games that are geared toward kindergarteners and 1st graders. Kids earn rewards for completing lessons, and the app will sync across devices so your child and pick up where they left off whether they are at home or on the go.
Just download the app to your preferred device and log into your account to get started. Three kids can be registered at a time, so make sure to log into the proper account.
Using Hooked on Spelling
Hooked on Spelling is a complementary section of the app that helps kids build up their spelling skills. This is typically recommended for kids who are in the Learn to Read level but can also be used after your kid has completed all of the program.
How to Get the Traditional Hooked on Phonics Books
If you want to get your kid away from the screen while teaching them to learn, then you’re going to want to get the traditional Learn to Read Kit.
This kit comes with 36 storybooks, eight workbooks to help guide you and your kid through the lessons, DVDs with instructions and songs for each lesson, flashcards, stickers, and access to online bonus content.
You can also sign up for the digital program and the traditional Hooked on Phonics books if you feel like you and your kid would benefit from both.
Final Thoughts
Getting an early start on reading can really set your child up for success. The good news is you’re not alone! Hopefully, this guide helped you learn how to get Hooked on Phonics for your kid, whether you prefer digital learning or traditional books.