About SonicPhonics
Our Story
Kia Ora!
SonicPhonics is a learning app created by a dedicated developer based in Seattle, USA and Auckland, New Zealand.
As a parent of two children, he deeply understands the challenges families face and is passionate about improving education—especially for those who need it most. Having worked in software development across various industries, he has now chosen to focus his skills on a cause that’s close to his heart: helping children build strong literacy foundations.
He believes that reading is the key to unlocking learning potential across all subjects, and with that in mind, he is committed to creating a tool that empowers both teachers and parents to give every child the opportunity to succeed. His focus is now entirely on making this vision a reality, driven by a desire to make a lasting impact on children’s education.
What is SonicPhonics?
Learning to read can be tough, but SonicPhonics listens! This app
helps kids learn to read by listening to their practice, correcting their mistakes, and rewarding their progress. While some children grasp
the ability to read effortlessly, others encounter challenges. Repeatedly practising letter and word pronunciation is key to this learning
journey. However, this process requires the presence of an adult
who is frequently available, a resource inaccessible to many.
Here’s where the SonicPhonics app comes into play. It actively listens
to children as they practice pronouncing letter sounds, offering corrections and rewards as needed. It reduces the burden on teachers and reading specialists by conducting real-time assessments and directing their efforts where they’re most needed.
Why?
Reading is a critical aspect of learning. Because of time or language ability, not every parent can practice letter sounds with their child. This will also aid teachers by better enabling them to spend more time with students 1-on-1.
How?
SonicPhonics uses AI to listen and assess children making the sounds of letters. It is then able to use that to reward children and inform parents and teachers.
Who?
SonicPhonics is currently targeting very early readers. Sounding out letters, listening and giving them personalized feedback is a skill that other technology solutions currently miss.
Where?
SonicPhonics is currently focused on New Zealand and the United States. Accents are important to voice recognition and this is where our team is based so can collect data.
Privacy
Collecting recordings of children making the letter sounds is a key part of this project. We maintain the privacy of children by doing this anonymously, no personally identifiable information is collected.
The Developers
A small team based in New Zealand and the United States are building this app. The goal of this project is to help better educate children. If you like the idea and think you can contribute please reach out!
Download The App!
Available on all devices, iOS Apple Store & Google Play.