by Jessie Wise and Sara Buffington

From the back of this book by one of the authors of the "Well Trained Mind": "'The Ordinary Parents Guide to Teaching Reading'" utilizes a simple, scripted format that guides parents and children through each lesson, from beginning vowel sounds through words on a fourth grade level." The authors have written this book "to supply parents with a clear, direct phonics program - a program that gives parents the know-how and confidence to take matters into their own hands."

We have used this book to guide one of our children as he learned to read and are now starting through with a second child. It is non-consumable and easy and enjoyable to use. My children and I enjoy time spent sitting on the couch working through the material together and it has served them well as they started reading and then progressed through the book. Part 2 of the book is titled "Information for the Ordinary Parent" and includes ideas and suggestions that were very helpful. I recommend reading at least some of it before starting with your child. For the lessons, you will need a magnetic board with alphabet tiles or letters, 3x5 index cards, scissors, pens, pencils, and drawing supplies - paperclips, yarn, magnets, and a dowel (for one special activity).