R & S phonics vs Explode the Code

[Gwenny]

I have seen where Julie SOMETIMES recommends going through the Explode the Code books 1-3 for those who are reading some and haven't done a phonics program. We did Teach your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons with my 8 yo but I think he needs more. He finished The Early Readers Bible and is starting on Owl at Home. He has had a harder time reading than my others.
I have the Rod and Staff phonics workbooks already, 1st grade and 2nd grade. Do you think I should just do those, or would it be better to get ETC. I think that the R & S might take more time? I really don't mind spending the money if it will be faster and easier for the same material learned. But...I don't want to be wasteful either. My time is more of a premium than money right now.

[arstephia]

I am a huge fan of the Explode the Code books. They are concise and reinforce the type of learning that 100EZ or Reading Made Easy style books utilizes. I think kids like them better as well as they are visually appealing.

[glperky]

We love ETC here! My 7yo likes them because he can do them by himself. I like them because he can do them by himself but still is learning! . Oh I like the price, too!