Lovevery Reading Skill Set Box 7 vs. Box 6: Which Comes Next?

Quick answer

If your child has completed Box 6 and is ready for more advanced phonics and comprehension, Box 7 is the logical next step. Box 6 focuses on foundational skills like digraphs and blends, while Box 7 builds on that with more complex word structures and fluency. Choose Box 7 if your child is confidently reading short books and needs a challenge; stick with Box 6 if they need more practice with basic decoding.

Lovevery's Reading Skill Sets are designed to take children from pre-reading to fluent reading through a carefully sequenced progression. Box 6 and Box 7 are two consecutive levels, each targeting specific skills that build on the previous one. Understanding the differences helps you decide which box matches your child's current reading stage.

In this comparison, we'll break down the skills covered in each box, the phonics progression, and the practical trade-offs—so you can make an informed choice without guesswork.

What Box 6 Covers

Box 6 typically focuses on digraphs (like 'sh' and 'ch'), blends, and decoding longer words. It's designed for children who have mastered CVC words and are ready to tackle more complex phonetic patterns. Activities in Box 6 often include word building, reading simple sentences, and introducing punctuation.

If your child is just starting to read short books with support, Box 6 provides the practice needed to solidify these foundational skills. It's a bridge from simple decoding to more fluent reading.

• Focus on digraphs and blends
• Introduces longer words and simple sentences
• Builds confidence in decoding

What Box 7 Adds

Box 7 advances to more complex vowel teams, silent letters, and multi-syllable words. It also emphasizes reading fluency and comprehension, with activities that encourage reading with expression and understanding. This box is suited for children who can read basic sentences and need to expand their skills.

The progression from Box 6 to Box 7 is smooth, but the jump in complexity is noticeable. Box 7 expects that your child has a solid grasp of the skills taught in Box 6.

• Advanced vowel teams and silent letters
• Multi-syllable word decoding
• Focus on fluency and comprehension

Key Differences at a Glance

The main difference lies in the complexity of phonics patterns and the level of reading independence required. Box 6 is more about mastering individual sounds and simple combinations, while Box 7 pushes toward reading with greater accuracy and expression.

Consider your child's current reading level: if they are still sounding out many words, Box 6 offers necessary reinforcement. If they can read short books with little help, Box 7 will challenge them appropriately.

• Box 6: Foundational phonics, shorter words
• Box 7: Advanced phonics, longer words, fluency

Trade-offs to Consider

• Skill progression: Box 7 builds on Box 6, but if your child isn't confident with Box 6 skills, moving up may cause frustration. Assess mastery before advancing.
• Complexity level: Box 7 introduces more complex phonics (silent letters, multi-syllable words) which may be too challenging for a child who still needs practice with blends. Choose Box 6 if your child needs more reinforcement.
• Reading independence: Box 7 expects more independent reading, while Box 6 often involves more parent support. Consider your child's comfort with solo reading. Pick Box 7 only if your child reads with some independence.

Related Lovevery Products to Support Reading

• 'Jilly and Jett' Book: This story gently introduces difficult emotions and shows how Jett uses the Calming Circle to work through them. Part of Lovevery's Kit Components, designed to support emotional development. Reading about emotions helps children build empathy and self-awareness, which complements the cognitive skills gained from reading skill sets.



• Storytelling Puppet (Green): Features changing emotion eyes, allowing children to explore different feelings and expressions during imaginative play. Puppets can make reading interactive and help children retell stories, boosting comprehension and narrative skills.

Which Box Fits Your Child?

Best for

• Children who have completed Box 6 and are reading short books with minimal help.
• 1st graders ready for advanced phonics and fluency practice.

Not for

• Children still struggling with basic CVC words or digraphs—they should revisit Box 6.
• Children who get easily frustrated with challenging reading tasks; consider Box 6 for more confidence-building.

Choosing between Box 6 and Box 7 comes down to your child's current reading skills. If they've mastered the basics and crave more challenge, Box 7 is the natural next step. If they need more practice with foundational phonics, Box 6 will solidify their skills. Trust your observation of your child's reading confidence and abilities.