Build Foundational Literacy Skills at Home with School Start Buddy

Inside the kit, you will find:

  • 57 magnetic letters
    Magnetic letters are an effective resource for teaching children letter sounds, as well as how to read and write words. The design of the case ensures it is quick and easy for children to find the letter they are looking for.
  • 24 blank magnetic sentence blocks
    The magnetic sentence blocks are designed to make it fun and easy for children to transition from reading and writing words to reading and writing whole sentences. The handbook explains exactly how to use the sentence blocks, as well as how children learn to read. 
  • 1 small magnetic whiteboard eraser
    The small size allows children to erase just one letter at a time, leading to more confidence and less frustration.
  • 2 whiteboards
    Children feel more confident to write on whiteboards because any mistakes they make can be easily erased. The two whiteboards allow all the magnetic resources to be clearly displayed on one board, while the other board is free to play and learn on.
  • 1 whiteboard marker
  • 100 blank sight word cards and 2 alternate colour pens
    It is important that children learn to quickly read commonly used words (also known as sight words). The handbook explains how your child can learn to read sight words by using the cards, pens and other resources inside the School Start Buddy.
  • 1 School Start Handbook
    This is a guide to teaching a child to read and write. All the activities utilise the resources inside the School Start Buddy case.

Starting school can be a challenging time for children, both exciting and a bit scary. Equipping your child with foundational literacy skills before they start or while they are in their early stages of education, will give them confidence and get them off to a great start, launching them into a lifetime of learning.

To learn more, visit the School Start website.


Hannah Schenker is a freelance writer, editor and regular contributor to The Natural Parent Magazine. She lives with a touch of magic in Golden Bay, New Zealand.

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