Helping kids build strong reading skills early on is one of the most exciting parts of their learning journey. Two popular methods to teach phonics, Alphabetics and Zoo-phonics, take different approaches but share the same goal: making reading fun, engaging, and effective.
What is Alphabetics?
Alphabetics is a step-by-step way to teach kids how letters and sounds connect. It’s based on a method called Orton-Gillingham, which uses multisensory learning to help kids make sense of the English language. What does that mean? It means kids don’t just hear the sound of a letter—they see it, say it, and even feel it by tracing or writing it.
For example, a lesson might have kids write the letter “B” in sand while saying its sound out loud, then use it in words like “bat” or “ball.” This approach is great for kids of all learning styles and can be especially helpful for children who might struggle with reading or need extra support.
What is Zoo-phonics?
Zoo-phonics brings the alphabet to life by combining letters, animal characters, and movements. Each letter has its own animal and sound, along with a motion to match. For instance, the letter “A” is Allie Alligator, and kids snap their hands like an alligator’s jaws while saying the /a/ sound.
This hands-on, playful approach helps kids learn phonics in a way that feels like a game. The movements and characters make it easier for kids to remember the sounds, and they love the chance to move around while learning. It’s a perfect fit for younger children who learn best when they’re active and having fun.
What Does the Research Say?
Both Alphabetics and Zoo-phonics are backed by research showing how effective they are at teaching phonics.
For Alphabetics: Studies show that this method is particularly helpful for kids who might struggle with reading, like those with dyslexia. By focusing on building strong connections between letters and sounds, Alphabetics lays a solid foundation for reading and spelling.
For Zoo-phonics: Research highlights how the fun, multisensory approach of Zoo-phonics gets kids excited about learning. Kids using this method often show big improvements in letter recognition and phonemic awareness—the key skills they need to start reading.
Which One is Better?
The great news is that both Alphabetics and Zoo-phonics are wonderful in their own ways. Alphabetics is a bit more structured and step-by-step, while Zoo-phonics is playful and interactive. Teachers and parents can even use a mix of both methods to create the perfect learning experience for their kids. For example, Alphabetics can help kids focus on the details of letter sounds, while Zoo-phonics adds a fun, movement-based way to practice and remember them.
Why It Matters
At the end of the day, the goal is the same: to help kids feel confident and excited about reading. Both Alphabetics and Zoo-phonics give them the tools they need to understand how letters and sounds work together, setting them up for success in school and beyond.
Whether your child learns best with a methodical approach like Alphabetics or thrives with the energetic, animal-filled world of Zoo-phonics, you can be sure they’re on the right track to becoming a strong and happy reader.
Explore Phonics Learning with I’m Just a Kid
At circle time, I’m Just a Kid integrates Zoo-phonics reviews into our daily routine, where children are encouraged to participate and interact with the fun animal characters and movements. As they grow, the Zoo-phonics program develops with them, gradually introducing more complex sounds and word-building activities to match their learning progress. This hands-on, multisensory approach helps reinforce phonics in a way that’s both engaging and effective, making every lesson feel like an adventure.
We’re passionate about helping children grow through fun and engaging learning experiences. Our programs are designed to build confidence and a love of learning in every child. Whether it’s phonics, early literacy, or any other developmental milestone, we’re here to support your little learner every step of the way. Visit us at I’m Just a Kid to learn more about how we can help your child thrive.
