Editor's view

If you work with Foundation Stage children, the official directives about using synthetic phonics as the first and foremost approach to teaching young children to read are probably causing you concern. You are not alone! Throughout the early years sector, there is widespread fear that the recommendations in the Rose Review could be interpreted in such a way that practice goes against the principles of good early years education. If synthetic phonics is used as the only way for children to learn to read, if inappropriate methods are used at too early an age, and if children's prior knowledge is...