For decades, American classrooms have been shaped by different philosophies about how children learn to read. Several prominent approaches have contributed to the conversation. Two of those are Lucy Calkins’ Units of Study (often called balanced literacy) and the Science of Reading. Understanding these approaches can help teachers make informed decisions about supporting their readers. […]
When we think of Lois Lowry, our minds often jump to her profound middle-grade and young adult classics like “The Giver” or “Number the Stars.” Yet this celebrated author’s rich storytelling tradition can begin much earlier in a child’s reading journey. While her most famous works might wait for later years, Lowry’s engaging style, memorable […]
For many children, learning to read flows naturally from exposure to books, letters, and sounds. But for others, the path to literacy is filled with unexpected challenges and frustrations. If you’re a parent watching your child struggle despite their intelligence and effort, you know how heartbreaking this journey can be. The good news? Learning disabilities […]
In a world where screens dominate children’s attention, there’s something wonderfully special about the arrival of a physical magazine addressed specifically to your child. That moment when the mailbox reveals a colorful publication filled with stories, activities, and discoveries creates an excitement that digital notifications simply can’t match. Kids’ magazines offer a unique blend of […]
Imagine watching your child open a book and read confidently, without stumbling over every other word. That magical moment when reading transforms from a laborious process to a flowing, enjoyable activity is often built on a foundation of high frequency words. These seemingly ordinary little words—think “the,” “and,” “is,” “of”—are actually reading superheroes in disguise! […]
A modern American classroom is one where students from various backgrounds are learning to read in English—some as their first language, others as their second or third. The colorful alphabet charts on the walls and decodable books on shelves represent not just letters and sounds, but gateways to new worlds and opportunities. For parents and […]
Remember the first time you encountered words like “pneumonia,” “rhythm,” or “colonel”? If you felt like you needed a magic spell just to spell them correctly, you’re not alone! English spelling can be downright puzzling, with letters that stay silent, sounds that change, and rules that seem to have more exceptions than examples. For parents […]
The third year of life marks an exciting language explosion for most children. That quiet baby who once communicated through cries and gestures is now transforming into a little conversationalist! Between the ages of 3 and 4, children make remarkable strides in their communication abilities, moving from simple phrases to complex sentences and stories. Understanding […]
Michael Rosen stands as one of the most beloved children’s authors and poets of our time. With his animated expressions, playful language, and infectious enthusiasm for storytelling, Rosen has captured the hearts and imaginations of children worldwide. For parents and teachers nurturing young readers, Rosen’s approach offers valuable insights into making reading a joyful, engaging […]
When your child struggles with reading, well-meaning friends and family often offer reassurance: “Don’t worry, she’s just a late bloomer.” These comforting words suggest that with a little more time, your child will naturally catch up to peers. It’s a soothing thought—the idea that children, like flowers, simply bloom at different rates. But what does […]
