Writing is a foundational skill that many of us take for granted. For some children, however, the seemingly simple act of putting pencil to paper becomes an obstacle course of frustration and difficulty. If you’ve noticed your child or student struggling with handwriting despite adequate intelligence and effort, dysgraphia might be the underlying cause. What […]
Each child’s brain processes information differently. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) embraces this diversity, offering a revolutionary framework that can transform how we teach reading to young children. What Is Universal Design for Learning? Universal Design for Learning is an evidence-based educational framework that optimizes teaching and learning for all students. Rather than forcing children […]
When young readers encounter words like”butterfly” or “elephant” for the first time, many freeze in their tracks. These longer, three-syllable words can look like insurmountable mountains to children who have only mastered simple one-syllable words. But with the right approach based on the science of reading and explicit phonics instruction, these seemingly complex words become […]
Isn’t it amazing to watch a child’s eyes light up when they not only read words correctly but also grasp the full meaning of what they’re reading? This reading milestone occurs when children master sentence comprehension – the magical moment when individual words transform into connected ideas. While helping children decode individual words creates an […]
Reading comprehension—the ability to understand, process, and connect with text—forms the cornerstone of successful reading. While many parents focus heavily on helping their child sound out words, true reading mastery happens when those decoded words transform into meaningful understanding. For children struggling with early reading skills, developing strong comprehension abilities can make the difference between […]
When a child is learning to read, every tool in our literacy toolbox matters. Text readers, which convert written words into spoken language, have become increasingly popular in both homes and classrooms. But like any educational tool, they come with both benefits and limitations. As parents and teachers, understanding when and how to use text […]
Books open worlds of imagination, knowledge, and connection for all children, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). As a parent of a child with ASD, you may wonder how to support your little one’s reading journey in ways that honor their unique learning style while building essential literacy skills. The path may look different, […]
As parents, navigating educational standards can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to something as fundamental as reading. Let’s break down the specific Common Core reading standards for Pre-K and early elementary students and explore practical activities that align with these standards to support your child’s reading journey. Key Common Core Reading Standards for Early […]
Imagine a child staring at a giant puzzle, eager to put the pieces together but unsure where to start. Now, picture handing them a guide that shows how each piece connects, turning confusion into clarity. That’s what concept maps offer our early readers—a visual way to organize new information and build connections that make reading […]
Have you ever noticed how some children seem to read in choppy, disconnected sentences while others flow smoothly from one idea to the next? That difference often comes down to understanding transitional phrases – those small but mighty connecting words that bridge ideas together. These seemingly minor language elements can actually be a major key […]
