PODCAST · education
Literacy for Littles
by Caitlin Spurr
Join me on my journey as I teach my three year old how to read and write. It is my goal that she’s able to recognize all of her letters and sounds by kindergarten and is hopefully putting those letters and sounds together to begin how to read. I am a former literary specialist of 15 years with a passion for developmentally appropriate ways of teaching reading and writing. I have worked to teach children how to read and write ranging from pre-k to 8th grade. I specialize in executional learners, those learners who don’t learn the same as all the other kiddos!
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Advanced 4 (our last story of season 2) Musician
Welcome to our very last phonological awareness story. If you’re new here, please please please start from the very beginning of the phonological awareness curriculum, which is season two episode one.
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Advanced 3 Meteorologist
Here is the second to last story of our phonological awareness curriculum! Please start the curriculum season 2 episode 1!
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Advanced 2 Dress Up
Ready for a challenge? Come explore Dino land and try your hand at some fun language challenges!If you are just beginning start from season 2 episode 1!
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Advanced 1 Dino Land
Ready for a challenge? Try this new series of advanced syllable stories. Too hard start at the beginning! Season 2 episode 1 :)
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Review 8 Tea
Please begin at season 2 episode 1 for the full phonological awareness development curriculum! This is the 8th review story
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Review 7 PBJ
Please begin at season 2 episode 1 for the full phonological awareness development curriculum!
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Review 6 Garden
Please begin at season 2 episode 1 for the full phonological awareness development curriculum!
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Review 5 Art
Please begin at season 2 episode 1 for the full phonological awareness development curriculum!
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Review 4 Lakeside
Enjoy this review of the concepts covered in the previous episodes
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Review 3 Getting Dressed
A reminder to start at season 2 episode 1 for the whole phonological awareness series!
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Review 2 Fruit
Please enjoy our second phonological awareness review! Remember to start at Season 2 Episode 1 for this phonological awareness series
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Review 1 Doll House
Welcome to the first of our Eight Review Phonological Awareness Stories! This special episode ties together everything we’ve learned in the past 50 episodes, helping your little one strengthen their phonological awareness skills through engaging storytelling and interactive practice.If you’re just joining us, we highly recommend starting from Episode 1 to build a strong foundation. Each episode introduces essential skills step by step—so by the time you reach this review series, your child will be well-prepared to master early reading concepts!Hit play and let’s review together! And if you haven’t already, go back to Episode 1 to start your child’s literacy journey from the very beginning.
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Review Introduction
The next 8 stories are review stories. We encourage you to start your listening journey at season 2 episode 1!
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Guess Who Level 9 Story 4
Can you guess what animal I am? Listen closely to the clues as we practice our onset rhyming skills! In this episode, you’ll practice identifying the rhyming part of words and the beginning letter sound in a mixed-level review. Get ready to sharpen your phonological awareness skills while solving these playful animal riddles. Let’s rhyme and guess together!
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Guess Who Level 9 Story 3
Can you guess what animal I am? Listen closely to the clues as we practice our onset rhyming skills! In this episode, you’ll practice identifying the rhyming part of words and the beginning letter sound in a mixed-level review. Get ready to sharpen your phonological awareness skills while solving these playful animal riddles. Let’s rhyme and guess together!
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Guess Who Level 9 Story 2
Can you guess what animal I am? Listen closely to the clues as we practice our onset rhyming skills! In this episode, you’ll practice identifying the rhyming part of words and the beginning letter sound in a mixed-level review. Get ready to sharpen your phonological awareness skills while solving these playful animal riddles. Let’s rhyme and guess together!
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Guess Who Level 9 Story 1
Can you guess what animal I am? Listen closely to the clues as we practice our onset rhyming skills! In this episode, you’ll practice identifying the rhyming part of words and the beginning letter sound in a mixed-level review. Get ready to sharpen your phonological awareness skills while solving these playful animal riddles. Let’s rhyme and guess together!
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Level 9 Introduction
Level Nine: Rhyme Time Mystery!Welcome to Level Nine of our phonological awareness stories! In this level, we’re turning our onset rhyme practice into an exciting guessing game. Get ready listen carefully, think quickly, and have fun as we explore what makes words sound alike. Each story will challenge you to spot the rhyming portion of words and beginning sounds as you solve playful riddles using your growing phonological skills. Let’s see how many rhyming pairs you can find are you up for the challenge? Let the rhyme time mystery begin!
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Lion Level 8 Story 4
Welcome to today’s episode of the For Littles Podcast!Get ready to prowl through the grasslands because today, you are a lion! With your big paws, swishy tail, and mighty roar, you are the king of the jungle. But being a lion isn’t just about being strong—it’s also about being a great listener!In this episode, we’ll use our sharp lion ears to hear the very first sound in words. So, stretch out, stand tall, and get ready to listen like a true lion. On the count of three, let’s give our biggest roar—1, 2, 3… ROAR! Let’s go!
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Fish Level 8 Story 3
Welcome to today’s episode of the For Littles Podcast!Take a deep breath and dive in—because today, you are a fish! That’s right, you’ll be swimming through the water, blowing bubbles, and using your best fishy ears to listen for the very first sound in words.Fish may not have big ears like other animals, but they are amazing listeners, always paying attention to the sounds around them. In this episode, we’ll glide through the ocean and practice beginning sounds in a fun and playful way. So, wiggle your fins, blow some bubbles, and let’s make a big splash—blub, blub!
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Cat Level 8 Story 2
Welcome to today’s episode of the For Littles Podcast!Today, you get to curl up, stretch out, and prowl around because you are a cat! Whether you’re a playful kitten or a sleepy kitty, one thing is for sure—cats have amazing ears that help them listen to every little sound around them. And in this episode, we’re using those sharp kitty ears to hear the very first sound in words!Get ready to pounce on beginning sounds as we play and explore like a curious cat. So, flick your tail, perk up your ears, and let’s get started—meow!
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The Great American Bald Eagle Level 8 Story 1
Soar Like a Bald Eagle!Flap, flap—whoosh! Do you feel the wind beneath your wings? That’s because today, you are a bald eagle, soaring high above the land! With your sharp eyes, you can spot a tiny fish in the water below, and with your powerful wings, you glide through the sky with ease. But do you know what makes you an even stronger eagle? Using your listening ears to hear the very first sound in words!
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Intro to Level 8
Welcome to Level 8 of the For Littles Podcast!In this next level, we’re soaring to new heights as we strengthen an important early literacy skill—isolating beginning sounds in words! This skill is regularly assessed for kindergarten readiness and should be nurtured in pre-K to set the foundation for strong reading development.Just like in Level 7, we’re making this learning adventure extra fun by stepping into the world of different animals! Each episode, you’ll get to become a new creature, using your ears to listen closely and your voice to practice those important beginning sounds.To kick off Level 8, we’re taking flight as one of the most majestic birds in America—the bald eagle! A symbol of strength and freedom, the bald eagle is the perfect way to start this journey. Get ready to spread your wings and sharpen your listening skills as we soar into the world of sounds!Let’s fly!
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Monkey Level 7 Story 4
Let’s make believe! In this episode, we’ll swing into rhyming fun while pretending to be monkeys. You’ll practice isolating the beginning and ending sounds of rhyming words, boosting your skills in onset, rhyme, and phonological awareness. This is one of four lively stories where you’ll step into the playful world of make-believe animals, making this monkey adventure an exciting way to learn!
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Mice Level 7 Story 3
Let’s make believe! In this episode, we’ll scurry into rhyming fun while pretending to be mice. You’ll practice isolating the beginning and ending sounds of rhyming words, sharpening your skills in onset, rhyme, and phonological awareness. This is one of four creative stories where you’ll step into the tiny world of make-believe animals, making this mouse adventure a delightful way to learn!
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Elephant Level 7 Story 2
Let’s make believe! In this episode, we’ll dive into rhyming words while pretending to be elephants. You’ll practice isolating the beginning and ending sounds of rhyming words, strengthening your skills in onset, rhyme, and phonological awareness. This is one of four imaginative stories where you’ll step into the world of make-believe animals, bringing a unique elephant twist to your learning journey!
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Dog Level 7 Story 1
Let’s make believe! In this episode, we’ll explore rhyming words while pretending to be animals like dogs. You’ll practice isolating the beginning and ending sounds of rhyming words, building essential skills in onset, rhyme, and phonological awareness. This is one of four playful stories where you’ll step into the world of make-believe animals, adding a fresh twist to your learning adventure!
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Intro to Level 7
In this playful level of For Littles phonological awareness, sound stories, we’re practicing rhyming skills to boost early language and reading development! Your little one will explore how words sound alike, how to isolate a beginning sound in how do to identify the rhyming part of a word, helping build phonological awareness for reading success. Join us as we take a turn on these fun stories and instead of going on trips and adventures we will be pretending to be various animals.
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Park Level 6 Story 4
In this Level 6 Sound Awareness Series episode, “Park,” we’re focusing on syllable omission by omitting the first syllable in two-syllable words. Using playful, park-themed examples, we’ll help young learners strengthen their phonological awareness skills while imagining a fun day outdoors.Join us for this engaging episode as we take learning to the next level—one syllable at a time!
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Library Level 6 Story 3
Welcome to another episode in our Level 6 Sound Awareness Series! In “Farm,” we’re practicing syllable omission by focusing on omitting the first syllable in two-syllable words. Through fun, farm-inspired examples, we’ll help young learners develop essential phonological awareness skills while exploring the sights and sounds of life on the farm.Let’s get ready to cultivate some early literacy skills together—one syllable at a time!
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Farm Level 6 Story 2
In this Level 6 Sound Awareness Series episode, “Going to the Farm,” we’ll continue building phonological awareness by practicing syllable omission. This time, we’ll focus on omitting the first syllable in two-syllable words. Through fun farm-themed examples, we’ll engage young learners in strengthening their listening and segmentation skills.Join us for this educational adventure down on the farm—where every activity brings your little ones closer to reading success!
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Aquarium Level 6 Story 1
Welcome to another exciting episode in our Level 6 Sound Awareness Series! In “Aquarium,” we’ll practice syllable omission by focusing on omitting the first syllable in two-syllable words. Using playful examples inspired by a trip to the aquarium, we’ll help young learners strengthen their phonological awareness skills in a fun and engaging way.
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Exciting News from For Littles and Intro to Level 6
Welcome to Level 6 of our Sound Awareness Series! In this episode, we’re taking phonological awareness to the next level by exploring syllable omission. We’ll focus on identifying and omitting the second syllable in two-syllable words, helping young learners sharpen their listening and segmentation skills. Perfect for educators, parents, and anyone supporting early literacy, this episode is full of fun, engaging examples and tips for practicing this essential pre-reading skill.We’re also thrilled to announce that For Littles is now officially trademarked! Starting in the new year, we’re launching exciting updates, including this podcast and weekly blogs. And 2025 has even more surprises in store—stay tuned to hear about them here first!
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Zoo Level 5 Story 4
Let’s take a wild adventure to the zoo in Level Five of phonological awareness! In this episode, we’ll practice dividing common two-syllable words while exploring the habitats of amazing animals. This exciting journey helps build essential reading skills and confidence, making learning a roaring success!
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Pool Level 5 Story 3
Dive into Level Five of phonological awareness with a splash! In this episode, we’re heading to the pool to practice dividing common two-syllable words. Through this fun and refreshing adventure, your little learner will strengthen essential reading skills and build confidence. Let’s make a big splash on the path to literacy success!
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Hiking Level 5 Story 2
Lace up your hiking boots and join us for Level Five of phonological awareness! In this episode, we’re hitting the trails to practice dividing common two-syllable words while exploring the wonders of nature. Discover how this outdoor-themed adventure builds essential reading skills and boosts confidence, one step at a time. Let’s hike our way to literacy success!
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Fairgrounds Level 5 Story 1
Join us as we step into Level Five of phonological awareness and head to the fairgrounds! In this episode, we’ll practice dividing common two-syllable words while exploring the sights and sounds of the fair. Discover how this engaging skill-building activity helps young learners develop confidence and lays the foundation for advanced reading success. Let’s make learning fun at the fair!
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Level 5 Intro
In this episode, we explore Level Five of phonological awareness from the For Littles albums. This level focuses on the critical skill of dividing multisyllabic words—a foundational step in developing strong reading abilities. Learn why mastering this skill builds confidence and sets the stage for more advanced literacy development. We’ll also discuss how each skill in phonological awareness is intentionally practiced to ensure your little learner’s success.
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Woodworking Level 4 Story 4
Step inside a woodworker’s factory in this calming episode of For Littles: Early Literacy Made Simple! As we explore fascinating tools, furniture, and creations, we’ll practice the phonological awareness skill of dividing compound words and erasing the second word.Your child will have fun learning about items like “workbench” and “sawdust,” all while building a key literacy skill that supports reading success. Join us for a fun and educational journey where imagination meets early literacy development!
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Jobs Level 4 Episode 3
What do you want to be when you grow up? In this episode of For Littles: Early Literacy Made Simple, we’ll explore exciting jobs like firefighter, zookeeper, and astronaut while practicing an important phonological awareness skill: erasing the first word in a compound word.Through playful activities and storytelling, your child will strengthen their ability to hear and manipulate word parts—a foundational skill for reading success. Join us for a fun-filled adventure that blends imagination, exploration, and early literacy learning!
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Grandparents Level 4 Story 2
Join us on an exciting trip to Grandma and Grandpa’s house in this interactive episode of For Littles: Early Literacy Made Simple! Together, we’ll explore different items around their home, like a “bookshelf” or a “teacup,” while practicing an important phonological awareness skill: erasing the second word in a compound word.This fun, hands-on activity helps your child develop their ability to hear and manipulate word parts—an essential building block for reading success. Tune in for a storytime adventure filled with laughter, learning, and literacy growth!
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Downtown Level 4 Story 1
In this episode, your child will practice an essential phonological awareness skill: erasing the first word in a compound word! As you enjoy the story together, your child will engage in playful, interactive story designed to strengthen their ability to hear and manipulate word parts—a critical step in building reading fluency.
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Level 4 Introduction
Welcome to For Littles: Early Literacy Made Simple! In this episode, we’re diving into the crucial role of phonological awareness in building strong reading foundations and how it connects to early identification of dyslexia. Discover why understanding the sounds of language is a game-changer for young readers and how early intervention can make all the difference.Curious about the early warning signs of dyslexia and how to support children who may struggle? Head over to our latest blog for actionable insights and expert advice on recognizing these signs early and empowering young learners.We will also introduce the next level of phonological awareness stories!Tune in to learn, grow, and make an impact on a child’s future.
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Garden Level 3 Story 4
Grab your tools and step into a lively garden adventure in this interactive phonological awareness story! As we explore the garden, you’ll help uncover the magic of compound words—breaking them apart, putting them together, and finding the hidden words within. From planting ‘sunflowers’ to spotting ‘butterflies,’ this playful journey will grow your phonological skills while having fun in the garden. Let’s dig in and see what we can discover!
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Fisherman Level 3 Episode 3
“Set sail on an interactive adventure with a friendly fisherman in this fun phonological awareness story! As we journey across the sea, you’ll help the fisherman play with compound words—breaking them apart, putting them back together, and discovering hidden treasures in the sounds. This story makes learning about compound words a fun and engaging experience. Cast your line and join the fun!”
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Countryside Level 3 Story 2
Pack your bags and get ready for a trip to the countryside in this fun, interactive sound story! Along the way, we’ll explore barns, rivers, and rolling hills while playing with compound words. You’ll help us break them apart, put them back together, and uncover hidden words as we travel. This playful adventure is perfect for building phonological awareness and learning how compound words work—all while having fun in the great outdoors!
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Adventure Level 3 Story 1
Get ready for a fun-filled adventure in level 3 story 1! In this episode, we’ll explore the mixed level compound words through an exciting adventure story. Join us as we trek through a waterfall and speed away in a speed boat!
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Level 3 Introduction
In this episode, we’re erasing the first or second word in compound words to discover what’s left. It’s a playful and interactive way to build phonological awareness while keeping learning fun and exciting. Let’s jump in and see how many words we can break apart!
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Sound & Sight: The Next Chapter in the Science of Reading
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating debate sparked by recent research on phonemic awareness and its role in teaching children to read. We explore the groundbreaking 2024 meta-analysis from Texas A&M University, which underscores a critical finding: while auditory phonemic awareness instruction (breaking down and blending sounds like in the word cat) builds foundational skills, its effectiveness plateaus after building auditory skills like compound, rhyming, and syllable level processing. After these levels the phoneme sound should be paired with its visual letter to develop phonemic awareness.We discuss why incorporating images of letters alongside sounds makes a significant difference in developing reading and spelling skills, particularly for young readers. And why developing rhyming skills, compound word awareness, and syllable division is the perfect start to a solid literacy foundation.
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Vacation Level 2 Story 4
Pack your bags for Level Two, Story Four of Sound Story: Phonemic Awareness, where we’re heading on a vacation adventure through the airport! In this episode, your child will practice dividing compound words as they explore the bustling world of travel. From check-in to take-off, each stop on the journey is designed to make learning fun while building essential phonemic skills. Perfect for repeat listening, this episode offers a ticket to excitement and discovery—all while strengthening language awareness.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Join me on my journey as I teach my three year old how to read and write. It is my goal that she’s able to recognize all of her letters and sounds by kindergarten and is hopefully putting those letters and sounds together to begin how to read. I am a former literary specialist of 15 years with a passion for developmentally appropriate ways of teaching reading and writing. I have worked to teach children how to read and write ranging from pre-k to 8th grade. I specialize in executional learners, those learners who don’t learn the same as all the other kiddos!
HOSTED BY
Caitlin Spurr
CATEGORIES
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