The trials will be based on the Primary National Strategy's 'Playing with Sounds' programme, additional guidance on teaching phonics in the Foundation Stage published last year.
However, many early years experts remain sceptical about the approach.
Evidence from the pilot schemes will contribute to the independent review of how reading is taught which was launched in June and is led by former Ofsted director of inspection Jim Rose. The final report is due early next year, followed by a renewed Literacy Framework.
According to the Department for Education and Skills, the trial schemes will examine several issues, such as 'the pace of phonics teaching in the Foundation Stage, the application of phonics through play-based approaches to learning and ongoing support and training in early literacy'.
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