Top 5 Leaders in Teaching Kids to Read with Phonics (And Why You Should Follow Them)

Teaching kids to read using phonics is one of the most effective methods for building strong literacy skills. Many experts have dedicated their careers to researching and improving phonics-based instruction. In this post, I’ll introduce you to five of the top leaders in the phonics space and explain why parents should follow them for valuable insights and strategies.

WILEY BLEVINS

Wiley Blevins is a literacy expert, author, and educator specializing in phonics instruction. He has written extensively on phonics, including the must-read book Phonics from A to Z. Listed above are a few of his books on the subject of phonics. He’s written a lot on the subject of research-based phonics strategies. He has practical tips for parents and teachers and his books include engaging activities that make phonics learning fun. You can find information about some of his books on his website: www.wileyblevins.com.

Dr. Louisa Moats

Dr. Louisa Moats is a literacy expert and researcher known for her work in the science of reading. She played a key role in the development of LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling), a professional development program widely used by educators. She has done deep research on how children learn to read and offers guidance on helping struggling readers. She is a strong advocacy for structured literacy approaches. Several of her most popular and informative blogs are listed here.

Dr. Sally Shaywitz

Dr. Sally Shaywitz is a neuroscientist and co-director of the Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity. Her work focuses on how the brain learns to read and how to support children with dyslexia. She has written a must-read for parents called Overcoming Dyslexia. She has contributed many research-backed strategies to support struggling families in this area and is a strong advocacy for early intervention and phonics-based instruction. You can find her book here.

Emily Hanford

Emily is a journalist and education researcher who has shed light on the importance of phonics-based reading instruction. Her investigative work has exposed flaws in traditional reading programs and emphasized the importance of phonics. She created the Sold a Story podcast, revealing how reading instruction has failed many children. She advocates for a science-based approach to reading and helps parents understand why phonics matters. You can find the youtube of the podcast here.

Denise Eide

Denise is the author of Uncovering the Logic of English and is an advocate for systematic phonics instruction. She simplifies phonics instruction for parents and educators. She developed the Logic of English curriculum and breaks down phonics rules in an easy-to-understand way. She provides tools to help kids master reading through structured literacy. You can find her website here.

These five leaders have made invaluable contributions to phonics-based reading instruction. Parents who want to teach their children to read effectively should follow their work for research-backed strategies and practical tips. Learning from experts in the field can empower you to support your child’s reading journey with confidence!