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IDK which to choose. I used OPGTTR for my older kids, once they were already reading. Just to go further than basic phonics, but IDJ how it'd be for actually teaching how to read.

I've read both sites on RME and RL and I'm not sure I like either, but I could be missing what's great about them.

What have you chosen and why? If you picked something else, but switched, what was it and why?

Hi,

I used Sing, Spell, REad and Write for my firstborn. It was a good fit for her. But not for my second dd. I used the Ordinary Parent's Guide with her and she learned very well with it. when my son, who is 6 wanted to learn to read a year ago, I knew the OPG book would discourage him because they don't get into stories until much later in the guide. So I tried The Reading Lesson. He loved it because he was 'reading' a 'story' by the end of the first lesson. We just finished lesson 10 (a year later) and he is doing very well with it. I like the instant success he gets. I like the black and white picture for each story. I believe I will use the same book to teach our youngest to read, we will probably start that in the fall. She is ready for some gentle phonics.

This is quick, I know, but if you have any other questions, just email me!

Jess

I'm using reading made easy this year with my oldest DS. He really enjoys the reading program. I think that the extra hands on things make it more interesting for him. The program uses index cards to make sentences, sight word bingo and word worms. My DS has also been very encouraged by reading sentences and stories from very early in the program giving him a big sense of accomplishment.

I haven't used the others you suggested but just thought I say why we like RME. What is is about it that is turning you off?

From the samples, I don't like the lay out of either book. IDK. I actually had TRL a long time ago, pre HOD days and sent it back.

This is exactly why HOD makes sure you can use any phonics program you'd like, as this is a personal choice, and there are many good programs available. As HOD carries RME and TRL, here are a few past threads in regard to those programs.

Carrie compares The Reading Lesson and Reading Made Easy
viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2503

The Reading Lesson:
viewtopic.php?f=6&t=5541

I think it is probably equally as important for us moms to like what we've chosen for phonics, as it is for our dc to enjoy it. I know my sister who has 7 dc loved the first phonics program she'd used, but still absolutely could not bear to teach it a fifth, sixth, seventh time. I believe she's used a total of 3-4 phonics programs over the years, just to keep it fresh for herself! All 7 of her dc are reading very well - many different phonics programs "get the job done". So, while many moms have loved TRL, and RME has been chosen for Cathy Duffy's "Top 100 Picks", finding one you like is important. Happy looking!

In Christ,
Julie

Thanks:)

We do use some blank paper to cover the parts of the pages that we aren't using, the pages are very busy. We also use the bob books with RME so that he gets the feeling that he's reading a book on his own rather than just the program. A friend here uses a program that has the kids with a small book to read each day and I love the way it looks, but not the price tag it comes with.