Why do we hammer with a hammer, rake with a rake, but sweep with a broom? This viral TikTok question sparked today’s conversation—a replay of my interview on Miss Beth’s podcast, The Play on Words Podcast. If you’ve ever wondered why English feels impossible to decode, this episode will give you clarity you can use with your child right away.

Miss Beth breaks down why English spelling is so inconsistent, using her favorite example: the word “healthy.” Since the root word is “heal,” the spelling stays the same—even though the pronunciation shifts.

We explore why the word “Pacific” contains three different sounds for the letter C, whether we’ve all been mispronouncing “longevity,” and why we drink a drink but definitely don’t “food a food.” Miss Beth also confirms that struggling with reading out loud in school doesn’t mean anything about your reading ability.

We’re already planning a part two, so start sending in the words that confuse you most. Whether it’s the spelling, the meaning, or the pronunciation, we’ll break it down and help make English make sense—one word at a time.

Links & Resources

Beth’s website: https://www.bigcityreaders.com/

Follow Beth on Instagram @bigcityreaders: https://www.instagram.com/bigcityreaders/

Beth’s FREE Workshop for Kinder - 2nd Grade Parents: https://my.demio.com/ref/NdBsEKF5wWoY4Tbs

LMNT: Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase at http://drinklmnt.com/MILESTONE. Find your favorite LMNT flavor, or share with a friend.

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