Your nearness and attention to questions and answers is of immense value. Beginning word play can also be arranged in the kitchen. Magnetic letters for the refrigerator door are widely available. An old Scrabble game can be brought into service or old fashioned pencil and paper can be used to introduce children to word games. Even very young children might be able to arrange a scrambled alphabet in the correct order.
Most children learn very early to spell their own and other family member's names.
Modelling with play dough is a time-honored occupation for children. The following is the best recipe for home made play dough I have ever come across. It stays soft and pliable for months if properly stored in the refrigerator. Cook one or two minutes more. Remove from pot and knead several minutes to form a smooth, elastic ball.