What Are Blending Skills?
Blending is one of the most important early literacy skills for children learning to read. It means combining individual speech sounds (phonemes) to form whole words. For example, recognising that /c/ – /a/ – /t/ blends into “cat.”
This skill forms part of phonemic awareness — the ability to hear, identify, and work with sounds in words. Blending acts as the bridge between a child’s knowledge of letter sounds (phonics) and their ability to read fluently and confidently (Ehri, 2014).
Why Blending Matters for Reading
Blending is at the core of word recognition, which alongside language comprehension, forms the foundation of skilled reading (Scarborough’s Reading Rope; Simple View of Reading). When children can blend sounds smoothly, they:
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Decode unfamiliar words more easily.
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Recognise spelling patterns.
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Build confidence in reading fluently.
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Improve comprehension of text.
Without strong blending skills, reading may feel slow, frustrating, and discouraging—even for children who know their letter sounds.
Strategies to Support Blending Skills
Speech pathologists and educators use evidence-based methods to help children master blending, such as:
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Phoneme-by-phoneme blending – Slowly joining sounds together before increasing speed.
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Continuous blending – Stretching sounds smoothly (e.g., “ssssuuunnn”).
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Elkonin boxes (sound boxes) – Visual tools that separate sounds and help children blend.
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Explicit phonics instruction – Connecting letters to sounds with decodable word practice.
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Multi-sensory approaches – Using movement, visuals, or touch (e.g., tapping out sounds).
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Cumulative practice – Repeated practice with familiar and new sound patterns.
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Decodable readers – Applying blending in real reading contexts.
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Error correction through modelling – Gently showing the correct blend when mistakes happen.
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Linking blending with spelling – Encouraging children to “stretch out” sounds while writing.
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Systematic literacy programs – Research-supported approaches such as Sounds-Write (McGuinness, 2004).
The Role of Speech Pathology
Speech pathologists are uniquely skilled in identifying challenges with blending and literacy development. Through structured, fun, and hands-on therapy, we support children in:
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Strengthening phonological awareness.
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Building sound manipulation and decoding skills.
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Developing confidence and motivation in reading.
FAQ: Blending Skills in Literacy
What are blending skills?
Blending skills are the ability to combine individual speech sounds (phonemes) into complete words. For example, /d/ – /o/ – /g/ blends into “dog.” This skill is essential for learning to read fluently.
Why is my child struggling with blending?
Some children find it difficult to connect sounds into whole words, even if they know their letter sounds. This may be due to challenges with phonemic awareness, processing speed, or confidence in reading. A speech pathologist can help identify the cause and provide targeted support.
How can I help my child practise blending at home?
You can:
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Play sound games (e.g., “What word is /s/ – /u/ – /n/?”).
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Read simple decodable books together.
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Use finger tapping or clapping to connect sounds into words.
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Encourage practice in short, fun bursts to keep motivation high.
When should I seek help from a speech pathologist?
If your child continues to struggle with blending after regular classroom practice, shows frustration when reading, or avoids reading altogether, it’s a good idea to seek professional support. Early intervention can make a big difference.
Does blending help with spelling too?
Yes. Blending works alongside segmenting (breaking words into sounds) and helps children “stretch out” sounds when spelling. Strong blending skills support both reading and writing development.
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Early intervention is critical. Research shows that children who receive explicit support in blending and phonics are far more likely to become fluent, confident readers (Ehri et al., 2001; National Reading Panel, 2000).
At Perth Speech Therapy, we help children build these skills in a supportive environment so they can thrive in school and beyond.
call: 0412256656. Location: unit 1 595 Canning Hwy Alfred COVE, Perth, W.A.