I am wondering if anyone has experienced or has any recommendations for resources for teaching phonics.

My 2 1/2 yo is very interested in learning to read and I'm also doing a course in Learning to Read and Spell Through Phonics to be a Tutor- but it is very dry and more apporopriate for older kids and adults. I would like something aimed at preschoolers.

I have looked breifly at Jolly phonics and Letterland, but without being able to actually look at the books it is hard to tell what they are like and they are also quite expensive. Any suggestions welcomed. Thanks