Long Vowels for Kids | Animal Phonics Alphabet

In this section of Animal Phonics, we will concentrate on teaching kids long vowel sounds. Our one-of-a-kind methodology employs cute animal characters that start with each long vowel sound, ensuring that phonics education is both enjoyable and unforgettable for young learners. Then check out our lists of the coolest animals that start with long vowel sounds. For some offline fun, download our free long vowel sounds coloring page. With our captivating games and exercises, children will have a great time mastering long vowel sounds and strengthening their reading abilities. Come along on this educational expedition and witness your child’s literacy abilities skyrocket!

What are long vowels?

Long vowels are special sounds that we make when saying certain letters in words. When we say a long vowel, we stretch out the sound and hold it a little longer than usual. It’s like giving the sound extra time to shine!

Imagine you have a toy car. When you push it, it moves quickly, right? Well, short vowels are like that. They sound quick and short. But long vowels are different. They’re like a toy car going down a really long ramp. It takes its time and goes really far, making a longer sound.

Let’s take some examples:

The letter “a”: When you say the word “cat,” the ‘a’ sound is short. But when you say the word “ate,” the “a” sound is long, like “a-a-a-ate.” Can you hear the difference? The long “a” sound stretches out like a rubber band.
The letter “i”: Say the word “sit.” The ‘i’ sound is short. Now say the word “bike.” The “i” sound is long, like “b-i-i-i-ke.” Can you feel how the “i” sound stretches out?
The letter “o”: Say the word “hot.” The ‘o’ sound is short. But when you say the word “boat,” the “o” sound is long, like “b-o-o-o-t.” It’s as if the “o” sound takes its time and keeps going.

Now explore all the long vowels sounds below!

Albert holding a sign with long vowels a, e, i ,o, u and y

Long vowel sounds

Long vowels can be represented by a horizontal line above the vowel: ā, ē, ī, ō, ū. Click below to hear the 5 standard long vowel sounds.

Animals that start with long vowel sounds

Click on the animal to hear its animal sound, then click its name to hear it said out loud!

ape

emu

ibis

okapi

unicorn

(Mythical)

Don’t forget “y” can be used as a vowel!

The letter “y” can also be used a vowel. It can make the long “e” sound or the long “i” sound depending on the word.

long “e”

long “i”

Cartoon boy reading a book - Alphabetimals

Animals that end with a “y” vowel sound

pony

butterfly

Free Animal Phonics Coloring Page: Long Vowel Sounds

Looking for a fun and educational activity to teach your little ones about long vowel sounds? Look no further than our printable Alphabetimals Animal Phonics Coloring Page: Long Vowel Sounds! This captivating free PDF download features adorable animal that start with long vowels sounds creatively shaped as lowercase letters a, e, i, o, u and y. With this engaging resource, children can explore the world of phonics while coloring their favorite animals. It's a fantastic way to reinforce their understanding of long vowel sounds in a playful and interactive manner. Download and print it today and watch as your kids embark on a delightful learning adventure!

download coloring page (pdf)