Spencer Russell, a former kindergarten and first-grade teacher and the founder of Toddlers Can Read, shares his motivation for teaching reading and emphasizes the importance of simplifying the teaching process. He provides practical tips for starting with letter sounds and engaging children in fun learning activities. Spencer also discusses the importance of assessing understanding and offers guidance on where to start when teaching letter sounds. Listeners can find Spencer on social media at ToddlersRead or visit ToddlersRead.com.

Takeaways

Start with letter sounds that are easier to pronounce and more familiar to children.
Engage children in learning activities that involve movement and play.
Assess understanding and retention through quick and frequent assessments.

Resources

Find Spencer on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook or ToddlersRead.com
Check out these videos on Instagram: Teach a Toddler to Read in 3 Easy Steps, Mispronouncing Sounds, Fourth Graders Reading at K Level Where Do I Start?

We answer your questions about teaching reading in The Literacy 50-A Q&A Handbook for Teachers: Real-World Answers to Questions About Reading That Keep You Up at Night.

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Ep. 184: First Steps for Reading with Spencer Russell (Quick Tips from Our Teacher Friends)