Prep: None / Activity Time: 5-10 Minutes

When learning the letters of the alphabet, children often first recognize the letters of their own names. They enjoy seeing the letters of their names and recognizing them. You might hear your child say: “That’s my letter!” or “That’s my name!” It usually means that your child sees a letter from his name in the environment. Why not go on a letter hunt with foods?

  • alphabet letters
  • various foods from the refrigerator
  • various foods from the pantry

Step 1: Place three to four alphabet letters from your child’s name within his reach.

Step 2: Invite your child to choose one of the letters from his name.

Step 3: Ask your child to tell you the name of the letter and the sound that it makes. Offer help, if needed.

Step 4: Encourage him to take the letter to the pantry and/or refrigerator and find a food item that begins with that letter. For example, Brian might choose the letter r and find some rice in the pantry.

Step 5: Ask your child to show you the printed letter on the food. Have him tell you the name of the letter and the sound that it makes.

Place just a few items from your pantry on a table or the floor. Be sure to choose items that include the letters in your child’s name. Ask your child to pick up one of the magnetic letters, look at the food boxes you have provided and locate the letter on one or more of the boxes. Assist as needed.

Remove the visual support of the alphabet letter. Ask your child to think of a letter from his name and find a food item that begins with that letter. Another way to add challenge is to try this activity at the grocery store. You can assign him an aisle and ask him to find a food that begins with the letter he chose. Make sure to have him show you the printed letter on the food. Then, have him tell you the name of the letter and the sound it makes.