Why is this the most useful set?

M, n, p, r and s are all high-frequency, and m is the easiest sound in English to isolate and hold. With m, s, a, t, p and n a child can already build real words.

Should I worry about R being unclear?

No. R is routinely the last consonant children master, often not clear until six or seven. On its own it is not a concern.

Alphabet Flashcards (M–R)

Preschool · 3–5

Six free printable alphabet cards on one sheet. M through R is the most useful group of the five. These letters do more work in early reading than any other six, and with m, s, a, t, p and n a child can already build real words. Print on A4 or US Letter and cut along the dashed lines — sticking the sheet to a cereal box first is worth the extra minute, because flimsy cards bend within a day. Then play rather than test: spread four face up and ask for one, hide one and ask which is missing, or post them through a slot in a box.

M through R

The most useful set of the five for a beginner. M, n, p, r and s are all high-frequency, and m in particular is the easiest sound in English for a child to isolate and hold — mmmoon — which makes it the natural starting card for sound games.

R is the exception: it is the last consonant most children master, often not clear until six or seven, so unclear pronunciation here is expected.

Start here if you start anywhere

If you are only going to print one set, print this one. These letters do more work in early reading than any other six, and with m, s, a, t, p and n a child can already build several real words.

Frequently asked questions

Why is this the most useful set?: M, n, p, r and s are all high-frequency, and m is the easiest sound in English to isolate and hold. With m, s, a, t, p and n a child can already build real words.
Should I worry about R being unclear?: No. R is routinely the last consonant children master, often not clear until six or seven. On its own it is not a concern.

M through R

R is the exception: it is the last consonant most children master, often not clear until six or seven, so unclear pronunciation here is expected.

Start here if you start anywhere

If you are only going to print one set, print this one. These letters do more work in early reading than any other six, and with m, s, a, t, p and n a child can already build several real words.

Frequently asked questions

Why is this the most useful set?: M, n, p, r and s are all high-frequency, and m is the easiest sound in English to isolate and hold. With m, s, a, t, p and n a child can already build real words.
Should I worry about R being unclear?: No. R is routinely the last consonant children master, often not clear until six or seven. On its own it is not a concern.