What is essential for developing reading competence in children?

Developing reading competence in children requires a multifaceted approach that includes not just phonics but also morphological awareness and an understanding of syllable structures. This combination allows children to decode words effectively, as phonics provides the foundational skills for recognizing letters and sounds. Morphological understanding helps them grasp the meanings of complex words by recognizing prefixes, suffixes, and root words. Additionally, knowledge of syllable structures enhances their ability to break down and read longer and more complex words.

When phonics skills are used in conjunction with these other elements, children develop a well-rounded reading ability that supports both decoding and comprehension. This comprehensive approach ensures that they can tackle unfamiliar words and gain understanding of the text as a whole, leading to greater reading fluency and competence.