Early literacy is more than just an academic milestone, it’s a gateway to confidence, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. Children who learn to read effectively are more likely to “read to learn” later, absorbing new information independently, participating more fully in the classroom, and developing a positive relationship with education. In contrast, early reading struggles … Read more
Despite significant efforts in education reform, the literacy crisis remains a pressing concern in schools across the United States and globally. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), only 33% of fourth graders in the U.S. read at or above proficiency levels, and the outcomes are even more concerning for subgroups such as … Read more
Developing a rich vocabulary is one of the most essential building blocks in a child’s learning journey. From the moment kids begin to speak, their ability to understand and use words shapes how they make sense of the world around them. A strong vocabulary doesn’t just help with talking—it supports listening, reading, writing, and thinking. … Read more
Summer is meant to be a time for kids to relax, explore, and recharge. But for many families, it also brings a hidden challenge—the dreaded summer slide. Research shows that children can lose up to three months of reading progress over the summer, with struggling readers, English Language Learners (ELLs), and students with learning differences … Read more
Phonemic awareness is the foundation of learning to read. It refers to a child’s ability to recognize, hear, and manipulate the smallest units of sound in spoken language, called phonemes. These individual sounds are what make up words—for example, the word cat contains three phonemes: /c/ /a/ /t/. The ability to isolate, blend, and play … Read more
Developing good reading habits at home means more than simply encouraging a child to read every day. It involves creating a structured, positive environment where reading is consistent, engaging, and effective. Good habits include setting aside dedicated time for reading, reading aloud regularly, choosing books at the right level, and ensuring that children understand what … Read more