This really is an amazing book. At first glance you may be apprehensive because it doesn't take the traditional A-Z approach, but the approach is remarkably effective. At first the letters that are pronounced are large and the silent words are small, but eventually that is phased out. Also, the letter "a", for example, is not written as a circle with a line down, but eventually that is phased into the lesson.
I love that this book teaches by sounds. The kids first learn the sounds the letters make and then they learn what the letters are. It may seem nontraditional but it is effective. I must admit, I wasn't sure at first about the approach but I persisted because I had seen the success with others and we have enjoyed the same success. My daughter loves knowing how to read and enjoys the time with me each day.
I picked up the book after watching my sister-in-law use it on her oldest two kids. She has reading treats that the kids get each day when they finish their lesson. She also gets them a toy after 10 lessons which has been very effective for her kids. I don't do the same reward system but I believe some type of reward system helps keep the kids motivated. Also, you must be consistent. I do lessons Monday through Friday only. It is also important to praise their success and point out the benefit reading has to them. This book takes persistence and patience but if you are willing to put in the time, you will reap the reward.
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