Your struggling readers have likely asked themselves, or you, “Why is reading hard for me?” Sometimes, there is not a clear reason. With a little extra help, many struggling readers are simply able to crack the code and catch up. Other times, there is a clear reason: For millions of people, it’s dyslexia. Unfortunately, many individuals with dyslexia remain undiagnosed and have a more difficult time catching up to their peers. Dyslexia is the most common learning disability in the country, affecting about 1 in 10 individuals. People with dyslexia have normal IQs, but differences in their brains make reading much harder for them. The dyslexic brain has a more difficult time understanding how letters and letter combinations represent sounds, and how letters are combined to form syllables and words. The symptoms of this learning disability include trouble with decoding, spelling, rhyming, and phonological awareness. If you have a child who may fit this criteria, visit the International Dyslexia Association page for self-assessment tools that provide information about diagnosing dyslexia in specific age groups. Humiliation about their learning struggles often causes students with dyslexia to retreat from class participation, lose confidence in their abilities, and underperform in school. Many go on to struggle in other key areas of their lives. To break this cycle, a greater understanding of dyslexia is essential. Teachers must be trained to identify dyslexia early on and provide appropriate intervention. When students with dyslexia receive the right kind of support, they are just as capable of performing well in school as their peers. Students who get additional support at home are more likely to reach their literacy goals more quickly. Sally Shaywitz, renowned dyslexia researcher and author of Overcoming Dyslexia , states that students with dyslexia typically need intensive, individualized instruction with feedback, guidance, and ongoing assessment in phonemic awareness, phonics, and reading fluency. Instructional programs should emphasize these core elements as well as building vocabulary and increasing comprehension. Reading researchers, including Shaywitz, recommend Read Naturally programs for providing this type of instruction. Read Naturally is the parent company of One Minute Reader. One Minute Reader was adapted from Read Naturally programs so that kids could use an effective reading tool independently at home. One Minute Reader and Read Naturally programs build phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension through high-interest nonfiction stories. The strategy used in these programs was designed to help students build confidence and motivation through self monitoring of progress. One Minute Reader and Read Naturally programs have helped countless students with dyslexia become competent readers. Dyslexia is a clear barrier to learning to read, but One Minute Reader can provide a clear pathway around this barrier. It's an ideal program to use at home with kids who need extra help becoming competent readers. Try it out for a free week! After that, it's only $8/month.

Reading is a fundamental skill that opens doors to endless possibilities for children. As parents, we constantly seek ways to nurture our children’s reading abilities, making the process both enjoyable and educational. The One Minute Reader program is a fantastic tool designed to foster independent reading skills in children. Here are some tips to help you introduce this program to your child seamlessly and effectively. Start with an Overview: Before diving into the program, take some time to watch the “How Does One Minute Reader Work” video together with your child. This video provides a comprehensive overview of the program and helps your child understand what to expect. Set Up a Reading Routine: Establishing a consistent reading schedule is often a game changer. Choose a specific time each day dedicated to using the One Minute Reader program. Whether it’s right after school or before bedtime, consistency helps in building a habit. Create a Comfortable Reading Space: Designate a cozy and quiet reading nook where your child can focus without distractions. A comfortable chair, good lighting, or maybe a white noise machine can make this space inviting. Work Through the First Story Together: Help your child get started by working through the first story together. This hands-on guidance will help them feel comfortable with the steps involved and build their confidence to continue on their own. Start with a Positive Attitude: Your enthusiasm for the program can be contagious. Present the One Minute Reader program as a fun and exciting activity rather than a chore. Celebrate this new journey with your child, emphasizing the enjoyment and adventure in reading. Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals for your child. Start with shorter reading sessions and gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable. Celebrate small milestones to keep them motivated. Track Progress Together: Use the program’s tracking features to monitor your child’s progress. Discuss the improvements you both notice, and set new challenges together. This shared involvement can boost your child’s confidence and motivation. Celebrate Achievements: Celebrate your child’s reading achievements, no matter how small. Whether it’s a special treat or a simple acknowledgment, recognizing their efforts reinforces positive behavior and encourages continued progress. Introducing your child to the One Minute Reader program can be a rewarding experience that sets the foundation for a lifelong love of reading. By creating a supportive and engaging environment, you can help your child develop essential reading skills while fostering their independence and confidence.