why am I writing this?
I’ve created this page to record my evolving ideas and to share what I’ve learned with others who have expressed interest in the topic, especially as their children approach and enter the world of reading.
Why research this topic in the first place?
- Because I’m a parent of a child who is actively entering into the reading scene. I’m fascinated with the process of learning to read and with my child’s development in general. I’m lucky enough to have time available to study the topic in-depth.
- Because there is so much information to be waded through and conflicting reports, opinions and advice on the subject. Because there are continuing problems (for some individuals, for most school systems) with teaching/learning to read in English. Because I’d like to make my own informed decisions about what is best for my child if problems arise.
- Because I’m a scientist by training, with a strong drive to understand the dynamics of a phenomenon. When it’s appropriate and possible, I prefer to operate from research-based information, not just anecdotes and traditions.
Why write this all down, and why publish it publicly?
- Because I’ve got the time necessary to digest a lot of written material. And as an avid reader, I’d like to share both the gift of reading and the results of this particular reading I’ve been doing.
- Because I’m a teacher and feel a pull toward helping people learn, whether that means helping children directly or helping their parents gather useful information.
- Because doing this kind of exercise is one of the best ways my particular brain processes information. It’s satisfying.
- Because this website is public, putting pressure on me to think carefully.
My background: I’m not an expert on the topic of reading instruction. I have not studied early childhood education or reading instruction at university. I have a degree in biology, did some scientific research, studied for and obtained a secondary school teaching credential, then taught HS sciences for 10 years. Later, I studied for and obtained a credential for Teaching English as a Second Language. For the past 7 years, I’ve taught English and computer skills to adults. For the past 5, I have been immersed in the world of early childhood education thanks to my child and several experts in the field who we’ve had the great pleasure to get to know.
To date, my ‘bibliography‘ isn’t extensive and is somewhat haphazard (what’s available at the library and what I stumble upon otherwise). There are more books and websites to read, other parents and experts to speak with, and children (particularly my own) to observe and learn from. Hopefully, I’ll eventually find opportunities to work directly with people seeking reading instruction for themselves or their children. These pages will change as I learn more and incorporate new information into the whole of what I understand.