Sing, Spell, Read and Write : Kindergarten Level 1 Combo Kit

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Review: I purchased this Kinder-Level 1 Combination Kit for $240 two years ago on the advise of a mom with older children. Since then 5 other moms in my area have purchased it. The step by step program makes it easy for anyone to teach their children how to read. The first step is learning the alphabet and the corresponding sounds. Musical tools and games are included and this type of learning was easy for my boys. The second step is learning short vowel sounds. Each concept includes readers using words a child has learned or knows at that point. Next they learn long vowels, letter blends (digraphs), silent e, two vowel combinations, and many other reading rules. Once again the readers use words or rules the child has learned and does not skip ahead. For example, silent e stories don't include 'ea' combinations until both concepts have been presented then the story includes both rules. Another example is how 'ch' has three different sounds; sh, k and ch. These are not taught at the same time, but the readers introduce these concepts at the appropriate point. It is great to have these concepts as examples in the readers without having to search for them.

I did not follow all the instructions, but modified it to the interest of my children at the time. I did not use it as a 'homeschooling' text, but as an activity for me to engage in with my children. I skipped some of the spelling lessons too, but the results are what counts right? My oldest son, now 6, was reading at an upper second grade level at age 5-1/2. He was tested with a modified IRI form after two months of kindergarten, but his kindergarten class is not enhansing his reading ability. That all comes from home. My youngest son, now 4, is reading at a first grade level. He started with reading my 'sight word' reader from first grade when he was 3-1/2. Remember Judy, Puff, John, Jean and Spot? Who said boys are slower learners? Both showed an interest in knowing what words or signs said when they were 3 years old, so I followed their lead and introduced reading. I used sight words first even though this program doesn't introduce them until later. I have also used this program with ESL children. In the Kinder Program the cut and paste appropriate letter sounds is a great starting point for all children.

My oldest son finished this program and all the texts books when he was 5-1/2 years old. Other than a few exceptions, he has no interest in reading them again, unlike other books he owns. But it is all about the final results right? Both my sons read! When your child is ready to read this is a great program to have on hand. Enjoy!