PDX Reading Specialist Articles

Reading instruction is evolving, and so are the tools we use to support our students. One of the most effective, research-backed tools for building early literacy skills is the use…

Teaching a child to read isn’t just about phonics and memorization, it’s about understanding how the brain processes written language. While most words in English follow predictable spelling patterns, some…

If you’ve ever watched a young child begin to read, you know the magic of that moment when they recognize a word for the first time. But not all words…

Academic success is often viewed through the lens of grades and test scores, but at its core, it hinges on one crucial skill: the ability to read and understand. Reading…

If your child has been diagnosed with dyslexia, or you suspect they may be struggling with it, you’re not alone. Dyslexia affects 1 in 5 children and can impact reading,…

Reading is not a natural skill, it’s a complex neurological process that must be taught. For decades, educators and researchers alike have sought to crack the code behind how children…

It’s no secret that spelling is often the unsung hero of literacy instruction. It doesn’t carry the excitement of reading a new book aloud or the immediate creativity of writing…

When it comes to early reading instruction, vowels can be surprisingly tricky. Young readers often confuse short and long vowel sounds, and without direct, engaging instruction, this confusion can persist…

If you’re an educator committed to the Science of Reading, you already know that phonics instruction isn’t just a checkbox, it’s a critical foundation for lifelong literacy. But here’s the…

Reading isn’t just about decoding words — it’s about making meaning from them. Whether you’re helping a first grader, guiding a teenager, or supporting an adult learner, reading comprehension is…

If you’ve ever witnessed the joy on a child’s face as they read their first sentence aloud, you know just how magical early literacy can be. That magical moment, however,…

In today’s fast-paced, academically driven world, one of the strongest predictors of future academic success can be found in the simplest of places: a child’s early exposure to language and…

When a child struggles to read, it can affect more than just grades—it impacts their confidence, academic progress, and love for learning. The good news? With the right intervention strategies,…

If you’re a parent watching your child struggle to read, you’re not alone—and there’s no shame in seeking help. Many students face reading challenges at some point in their academic…