My belief is that teaching kids to read is easier than its made out to be, at least if the parents and teachers both move things forward.

• start them young (e.g. before age=2) with picture books, board-books, etc.

• read to them every day as soon as they can understand what you're saying

• read them things they'll find interesting/entertaining/funny (for funny/entertaining, make sure you use funny sounds and voices)

• get them access to lots of books - library or buying

[Reading Comprehension]

• have them tell you about what they're reading (for school or fun). Ask them questions that help them refine their re-telling and understanding.

Writing (and Speaking)

• get them keeping a journal (Note Book) - on paper - with pictures and words mixed on the page

• get them to learn Touch Typing

• eventually get them an online Thinking Space

• [Rhetor Ic], Argumentat Ion

Some resources:

• http://whyslopes.com/ParentCenter/Reading_Writing.html

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