Progress Matters More Than Perfection
When it comes to teaching reading, the steps matter — but they’re guidelines, not rigid rules.
Most students benefit from fully mastering one skill before moving on. That said, there are moments when a little flexibility can actually help learning stick. Progress doesn’t always happen in a straight line, and that’s okay.
Here are two situations where bending the rules can be especially helpful:
1. When a student is stuck too long on one step
If a single challenge is slowing everything down, it can help to move forward briefly to keep momentum — then return to that tricky spot later with fresh eyes.
2. When motivation starts to dip
Early phonics can take months before students read their first book. Sometimes, teaching just a few consonant sounds plus a short vowel allows them to read simple sentences like: The cat sat.
That early success matters. Being able to read something builds confidence — and motivation often follows.  🎥 Proof that small steps really do add upYou don’t need the entire alphabet mastered to begin reading. In this quick video, we show how learning just a handful of sounds can unlock a student’s very first book — and a big confidence boost 📚 Ready to help students experience that first “I can read!” moment?Our First Books are designed to support early success with carefully controlled text that matches what students are learning — so they can read real sentences sooner and feel proud of their progress. Small steps. Big confidence.
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