Short names, long names
Have your child say the names of some people he or she knows. Then ask your child to tell you which of two names sounds longer. For example, ask, Which sounds longer, Jack or Ariana? Clap to segment the parts of a name into syllables (Jack = 1 clap and Ariana = 4 claps). This activity requires listening skills, which are important for learning to read. Clapping out syllables is a simple way to develop your child's phonological awareness.