Teaching the difference between b and d

[Mouse]

Has anyone got any clever tricks for teaching the difference between 'b' and 'd'?

My 5 year old grandson struggles to remember which letter is b and which is d. I didn't know if there was a way of teaching it or if it's just something that will come over time with lots of repetition.

[Maza]

If you google 'bat before the ball' you will see several visuals to help you remember 'b'. I have printed some out (maybe your grandson could choose which version he prefers) and have laminated it. We usually have it in front of us when writing. They can also make the bat quickly with their index finger on their left hand, and then the ball with their other hand.

Some children do really well if they just focusing on learning either b or d really well, but not both at the same time. Then, when they know one, they know that the other just must be the letter they haven't focused on, if that makes sense.

There are lots of 'd' picture cards too - drum/drumsticks usually. There is a picture of a bed which shows both letters.

[Mouse]

Thank you Maza, that's perfect!

I like the idea of learning one first and then the other. I think that'll help.