LEARNING PATH LESSON · SIGHT WORDS · AGES 4–5 YEARS
Play — a step-by-step lesson for grown-up and child
Five minutes, one card: say “play” clearly, use it in a real sentence (“We can play.”) and finish with one small game.
What it means
It means to do something for fun.
How to teach it
- Hold up the card and read “play” slowly, sliding a finger under it. Point out its shape: a p with a tail, an l, then an a and a y that finishes it.
- Cover the word with a hand and ask your child to say it from memory. Draw a big tick on the canvas when they get it.
- Play the game below, say “play” one last time and stop while it is still fun.
How to say it
Say play with a long a, like day and say.
Where to use it
Say it in a real sentence: “We can play.” Then try “Let us play outside.” Where to spot it: invitations, such as can you play with me.
Try this game
Ask what to play, then play it for one minute. Say I play as you start.
Understanding check
Say “play” and ask your child to show you with their body, then to read the card back to you without help.
Parent tips
If “play” slips away overnight, that is normal. Bring it back the next day with the same game and a smile.
This lesson pairs with the Play flashcard in the library — print it, show it, keep it on the fridge. Back to Sight Words (Class 29).