In this episode of the Teachers Podcast, Chris and Emma dive into phase one phonics—the playful sound-focused stage that comes before the more official letters and reading.  

Emma explains how it’s all about listening, rhythm, rhyme, alliteration and oral blending, giving children the foundations for confident reading later on. From environmental sounds to body percussion, voice experiments, and fun games like I-Spy, they explore practical ways to bring phonics to life in nursery and early years classrooms—and even revisit it with older children when needed.  

It’s a happy reminder that phonics is about playing with sounds, building attention, and sparking a love of language. 

Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk