Because reading is not about just saying the words, isolated lessons in phonics do not help children become involved readers. Phonics instruction should, however, be part of a program of instruction in reading. The direct teaching of skills is part of an effective whole language approach. Whole language is based on the understanding that reading is finding the meaning in written language. That's why, for example, you may have noticed that your child can read a word in the context of a familiar book that he or she may not read when the word stands alone.
Children develop an awareness of the sounds of our language naturally.
This awareness is enhanced or reinforced when a parent or teacher highlights letter sounds for a child, for example, when reading a book together or noticing a sign on a store. Lessons that isolate letter-sound relationships usually go in one ear of the child and out the other. In order for children to remember letter-sound relationships, instruction should be based in something real and personally meaningful to them. Children should learn phonics as part of many activities based on their individual needs. Different books help children learn particular skills.