I am new to phonics programs and would really enjoy getting started. My oldest son just turned 4. I am looking into starting home schooling through my church in about six months and would like to start teaching him how to read, count to ten, and say his alphabet before he turns 5. Is this too much to expect from a child this age? Also how do I get started in a phonics program?

No, it is not unreasonable to think that your 4-year-old can learn much of what you have described. I teach 4-year-old children and throughout the school year we cover alphabet letters and sounds, blending those letters into words, and then introducing reading. Many of my 4-year-old’s are reading on a first grade level by the time they finish in May. I use a phonics program, and have had tremendous reading success, I think it would be a great home school beginning.

We also cover numbers 1-20, not just being able to count that high, but being able to recognize the number on sight, write it, and recognize that these numbers also have a value. They learn colors and color words, shapes, they learn to write their names (first and last), use scissors well, and be able to write well enough to copy simple words from the board. These are the basic academic preschool concepts that we cover in a nine-month school year period. We also do simple science units (example: 5 senses, animals and their habits, community, family, seasons, etc.) and an arts and crafts project everyday to help continue to develop super fine motor skills. We also work on continuing development of their big motor skills, and we focus on learning 6-8 songs every month. So your list of expectations is very doable for a 4-year-old child, I do it every day, and the rewards are wonderful. Enjoy the process of working with your child.