Phonological (Sound) Awareness Development Chart

Phonological Awareness is the understanding of how sounds combine to form words.

Note: Each stage builds on earlier ones.

How to use this chart: Review skills up to the child’s age. If earlier skills are missing, contact us.

\u29bf The last sound in words is identified (e.g. '+' in 'cat')
\u29bf Words starting with the same sound are listed (e.g. man, mop)
\u29bf The different word among three is told (e.g. jug, mug, jug)
\u29bf 3-4 sounds are blended to make words (e.g. s-a-n-d = sand)
\u29bf Sounds in 3-4 sound words are segmented (e.g. sand= s-a-n-d:4 sounds)
","\u29bf Correct spelling may be difficult if sounds in different positions aren't heard
\u29bf Recognition that joined sounds create whole words may be challenging
"],["6-7 years","\u29bf Syllables are deleted from words
\u29bf Syllables in words are substituted
\u29bf Sounds are deleted from words (e.g. 'ear' from 'dear')
\u29bf Sounds in words are substituted (e.g. 'bat' from 'cat')
","\u29bf Similar letter\/sound patterns may be unrecognizable if sound manipulation is difficult
\u29bf Visual word representation may be hard to create and maintain during sound changes
"],["7-8 years","\u29bf Phonological awareness skills are used when spelling
","\u29bf Words may be spelled incorrectly
\u29bf Accurate and fluent reading may be challenging
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The Data is Not Available

This chart provides a functional screening of age-based developmental skills, not a formal assessment. It combines decades of multi-source data, clinical experience, and educator input from South Australian schools, adapted to align with practical ACARA curriculum requirements beyond standardized research.

Reference List Entry:
Kid Sense Child Development. (n.d.). Child development charts.

Content adapted and inspired by developmental milestone charts from Kid Sense Child Development (https://childdevelopment.com.au/). Credit to Kid Sense for foundational insights used in creating materials for Aliana Pediatric Therapy.