How the Hands-On Phonics Program Works

Hands-On Phonics follows a clear and intentional learning progression. Concepts are introduced step by step, explored through stories and hands-on experiences, and reinforced until children demonstrate confidence and readiness to move forward.

Progression is based on understanding and mastery, not age or speed.

The Children’s HOP Journey

Hands-On Phonics (HOP) is a multisensory, story-based phonics program where letters become characters and stories explain how sounds work when they come together. Children don’t just learn sounds—they understand them through stories, movement, and visual support. This journey helps children move from sound awareness to confident reading, step by step, at a developmentally appropriate pace.

Stage 1: I-SPY Letters

(Foundational Sound Awareness)

Stage 2: Gang Letters Adventure

(Blending and Word Building)

(Patterns, Meaning, and Reading Application)

Stage 3: Word Mystery

This is where a child’s reading journey begins.

Children learn to notice sounds, recognise letters, and build strong listening skills. The focus is on understanding the connection between spoken sounds and written letters

Why this stage matters
Strong sound awareness prepares children to blend sounds and read successfully.

Where sounds come together to form words.

Children begin blending sounds to read and build simple words. This stage focuses on helping children hear, say, and read sounds together with confidence.

Why this stage matters
Blending is the bridge between knowing sounds and becoming a reader.

Where children unlock new and unfamiliar words.

Children explore phonics patterns and apply them to real reading. The focus shifts toward decoding, understanding, and reading independently.

Why this stage matters
Word Mystery helps children use phonics as a tool for meaning, building confidence as independent readers.

Across all stages, Hands-On Phonics follows a consistent learning rhythm:

• Seeing, hearing, saying, touching, and making meaning through stories

• Short, focused lessons with repetition and review

• Guided practice followed by independent attempts

• Continuous observation and gentle assessment

Children move forward based on readiness and confidence, not pressure or speed

How Learning Happens in HOP

The Hands-On Phonics journey:

• Is systematic and structured

• Is child-friendly and story-based, helping children understand how letters and sounds work together

• Builds skills gradually without gaps

• Supports both early learners and children who need extra foundational support

• Keeps learning joyful, meaningful, and engaging through stories and hands-on experiences

Why This Journey Works

Multi-Sensory Learning in Action

Learning in Hands-On Phonics engages the whole child — mind, body, and emotions. Children don’t just learn sounds; they experience them through sight, hearing, touch, movement, and story.

Children:

• See letters and patterns clearly

• Hear accurate sounds and strong models

• Say sounds, words, and sentences aloud

• Feel how their mouth moves while making sounds

• Write, trace, and build letters through hands-on activities

• Connect sounds to meaning through stories and actions

Stories play a special role in HOP. Letters are given roles, relationships, and feelings, helping children understand how words are built naturally — not through abstract rules. This whole-body, story-based approach builds deeper phonics understanding, stronger memory, and a solid foundation for confident reading.