Structured literacy is a way of teaching reading that's explicit, systematic, and grounded in the science of reading. It works for all kids — and it's especially powerful for kids who are struggling. Here's what parents should know.

Summer is supposed to be fun — but did you know kids who don't read over the break can lose up to two months of reading progress? The good news is, preventing the "summer slide" doesn't require a structured curriculum. It just takes a little intention and a lot of flexibility. From letting your child choose their own books to sneaking literacy into everyday activities like cooking and scavenger hunts, there are so many ways to keep reading alive without it feeling like school. Read the full post for all my favorite tips.

Reading is not natural. Unlike speaking, which children pick up instinctively, reading has to be explicitly taught , our brains simply aren't wired for it. That's the foundation of the science of reading, and it changes everything about how we should be teaching kids to read. For children with dyslexia, which affects roughly 1 in 5 people, the right approach matters even more. Structured, multisensory methods like Orton-Gillingham don't just help struggling readers catch up — they give every child a stronger foundation. When a child traces a letter in sand, taps it out on their arm, and says it aloud all at once, the brain builds connections that stick.

Not sure if your child needs reading support? Here are five common signs to look for — and what you can do about each one. None of these mean anything is wrong with your child. They just mean their brain might need a different path to becoming a confident reader.