Science of Reading Articles for Parents

1. “What is the Science of Reading?” – Understood.org

A clear, straightforward explanation for parents about the science behind reading instruction, including why phonics and decoding matter.
Link: https://www.understood.org/articles/en/what-is-the-science-of-reading

2. “The Science of Reading: A Parent’s Guide” – The Reading League

A helpful guide breaking down key concepts of the science of reading and how parents can help their children at home.
Link: https://www.thereadingleague.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Parents-Guide-to-Science-of-Reading.pdf

3. “Why Phonics is Important for Learning to Read” – Reading Rockets

Explains phonics in plain language and why it’s essential for reading success. Good for parents new to reading instruction jargon.
Link: https://www.readingrockets.org/article/why-phonics-important-learning-read

4. “How Kids Learn to Read” – Scholastic Parents

A parent-friendly overview of the reading development stages with tips to support kids’ literacy growth.
Link: https://www.scholastic.com/parents/books-and-reading/raise-a-reader-blog/how-kids-learn-to-read.html

5. “Supporting Reading Development at Home” – National Center on Improving Literacy

Simple strategies parents can use at home to support foundational reading skills based on science of reading principles.
Link: https://improvingliteracy.org/supporting-reading-development-home

6. “Understanding the Science of Reading: Why It Matters for Your Child” – Reading Rockets Video

A short, engaging video explaining key ideas behind the science of reading, perfect for parents who prefer watching over reading.
Link: https://www.readingrockets.org/video/understanding-science-reading

7. “Common Reading Myths Debunked” – Reading Rockets

A useful article addressing common misconceptions parents might hear about reading instruction.
Link: https://www.readingrockets.org/article/common-reading-myths-debunked

8. “Tips for Reading with Your Child” – PBS Parents

Practical advice that aligns with science of reading approaches, helping parents foster early literacy skills during reading time.
Link: https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/how-to-read-with-your-child

9. “What Parents Should Know About Reading Instruction” – International Dyslexia Association

A parent guide explaining effective reading instruction based on scientific research, including dyslexia-friendly tips.
Link: https://dyslexiaida.org/what-parents-should-know-about-reading-instruction/

10. “Phonemic Awareness: The Critical First Step in Learning to Read” – Reading Rockets

Explains phonemic awareness and why it’s crucial before phonics, geared toward parents who want deeper understanding.
Link: https://www.readingrockets.org/article/phonemic-awareness-critical-first-step-learning-read