Not all phonics classes are equal. Here is how to tell the difference before you enrol.
Phonics classes have become increasingly popular in Pune — and with good reason. But with growing demand has come a growing number of providers, not all of whom offer genuinely structured, effective instruction. Before enrolling your child, ask these seven questions.
This is the most important question. "I know English well" or "I have been teaching for many years" is not the same as formal phonics training. Effective phonics teaching requires specific training in phonemic awareness, the sequence of sound instruction, blending and segmenting techniques, and how to identify and correct individual children's gaps.
Look for teachers with certification in a recognised phonics program — such as Jolly Phonics, Read Write Inc, or equivalent. Ask directly: "What phonics certification do you hold?" A genuine answer will name a specific program and training provider.
Good phonics is not random. Sounds must be taught in a specific order — one designed to enable children to read real words as quickly as possible. Ask: "What curriculum do you follow?" and "In what order do you teach the sounds?"
If the teacher cannot explain the sequence, the program is not truly systematic.
Phonics is most effective with individual attention. In a large group, the teacher cannot monitor whether each child is correctly producing sounds, blending accurately, or developing good letter formation.
Ideally, a phonics batch should have no more than 8–10 children. Classes of 15–20+ are more suited to general tuition than precision phonics instruction.
A confidence in their program shows. Genuine phonics academies offer a free demo class or assessment — they want you to see the approach before committing. Be cautious of providers who will not let you observe a class or who push for immediate payment.
A free assessment also allows the teacher to understand exactly where your child is and place them in the right batch — this matters enormously for effective instruction.
Ask: "How will you tell me what my child has learned each week?" and "How do you know when a child is ready to move to the next level?" Good phonics teachers track individual progress, communicate it to parents regularly, and adapt their teaching accordingly.
Vague answers ("we cover the syllabus") are a warning sign. Specific answers ("your child will have covered the first three sound groups and can blend CVC words after 4 weeks") indicate a genuinely structured program.
Children need to practise between sessions for phonics to stick — three sessions per week is ideal, plus daily 5–10 minute practice at home. Ask whether the teacher provides parents with guidance on what to practise at home, and whether there are supporting materials.
Digital resources for home practice — like our own reading studio — are particularly valuable for keeping children engaged between sessions.
Testimonials on a website are useful but asking to connect with current or past parents is more reliable. A good phonics academy will happily facilitate this. Look for Google Reviews with specific, detailed outcomes — not just "great teacher!" but "my child went from struggling to read to reading independently in 3 months."
Book a free demo class and experience the ExcelKidsHub approach for yourself — then decide.
Related reading: What is Jolly Phonics? | Phonics Classes in Dhanori Pune