Direct phonics instruction is so critical, and thankfully many schools and teachers are embracing it as the science of reading becomes more mainstream. Consonant blends are a phonics skill typically taught after short vowels and digraphs, but before long vowels. After you’ve taught your students how to read words with these blends (which I cover here!), they’ll still need plenty of practice. Here are seven ways for your students to practice consonant blends, perfect for centers or word work!

Word Sorts Word sorts encourage students to notice phonics elements within words, and it also gives them additional practice in reading and writing words with blends.
Puzzles Puzzles are a fun and tactile way for kids to practice reading words with blends.
Magnetic Letters You can provide picture cards of words featuring blends (like the ones included in my Phonics by Design Blends Unit) and have students build each word with magnetic letters. You can also use magnetic letters during the guided practice section of your direct phonics instruction.
File Folder Tasks Most kids seem to love file folder tasks! They take a little time to prep, but you can use them year after year.
Clip Cards Clip cards are another fun, tactile way to get phonics practice.
Sand Tracing Just like with magnetic letters, you can provide picture cards of words with blends, and have students write the word in sand with their finger. I like to use flat tupperware containers for the sand, and of course you’ll have to go over rules about the sand staying in the container!
Adapted Books My students always loved completing adapted books, like these Consonant Blends Adapted Books.

I hope these consonant blends activities are useful in your special education, kindergarten, or first grade classroom!

7 Ways to Practice Consonant Blends