Can — a step-by-step lesson for grown-up and child
Five minutes, one card: say “can” clearly, use it in a real sentence (“I can jump.”) and finish with one small game.
What it means
It tells us what someone is able to do.
How to teach it
- Hold up the card and read “can” slowly, sliding a finger under it. Point out its shape: a round c, an a and an n, all friends in a row.
- On the drawing canvas, let your child trace over the word with a finger or the pencil, then circle any letter they already know.
- Play the game below, say “can” one last time and stop while it is still fun.
How to say it
Say a short a, then n: can, like fan and man.
Where to use it
Say it in a real sentence: “I can jump.” Then try “Can you help me?” Where to spot it: proud claims and polite questions, such as I can do it.
Try this game
Take turns saying I can and then doing a skill: I can hop, I can clap, I can wink.
Understanding check
Tomorrow, show the card and say nothing. If your child reads “can” at once, it has arrived; if not, play the game again the day after.
Parent tips
Keep it to five minutes, and add “can” to the card pile only when the words your child already knows feel easy.
This lesson pairs with the Can flashcard in the library — print it, show it, keep it on the fridge. Back to Sight Words (Class 29).