Chapter 06Family & Parenting

How do I teach my kid to read?

Read to them daily from birth, point at words as you read once they're 3+, work through letter sounds (phonics) around 4–5, and be patient — fluent reading typically clicks between 6 and 8.

Follow-up questions

Is phonics or whole language better?

Phonics. The 'reading wars' are effectively settled: systematic phonics produces stronger readers.

When should I worry?

If a 7-year-old still can't sound out simple words, or reads accurately but with no comprehension, ask about dyslexia screening.

Best apps for early reading?

Teach Your Monster to Read and Reading Eggs get high marks. Use as supplement, not substitute.

How do I raise a reader, not a decoder?

Let them pick books, don't police the level, and keep reading aloud past the age they can read alone.

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