Homeschool moms sometimes fret over the subject of reading. This is rather humorous if you think about it — you do know how to read, right? There really is nothing more natural than teaching a child to read — much like we teach him to walk or talk — but we make it more complicated than it needs to be. Typically all that is required is simple patience, waiting to start until our child is ready and opting for a more natural method rather than a lengthy chaotic search for a magic bullet. With A Home Start in Reading by Ruth Beechick (part of the Three R’s) you really have all you need to teach your child to read. But for those who prefer something a little more directed, Alpha-Phonics Workbook by Samuel L. Blumenfeld is a handy supplement.
The book goes along with Blumenfeld’s Alpha-Phonics book written back in the early ’80s and tracks nicely with A Strong Start in Reading. While Ruth Beechick’s instructions are much simpler and easier to understand, both programs take a similar approach.
One more tool in the Homeschool Mom’s toolbox — and it’s free!
Update: This is still available at no cost, however, the process to receive the free workbook is now more complicated. The hosting site is requesting a donation. Donating $0.00 is an option. The workbook can be added to your cart, but registration is required at checkout. We typically delete these resources when they are no longer available as simple free downloads. For now, we will leave this up on behalf of the many people requesting it and finding it helpful….
Free eBook
Additional Resources
Alpha-Phonics: A Primer for Beginning Readers by Samuel L. Blumenfeld
Print copy of the Teacher’s Manual with lesson plans for those interested. One of Cathy Duffy’s top picks in homeschool curriculum.
Sam Blumenfeld Archives
Alpha Phonics is only one of the many resources available at the Sam Blumenfeld Archives hosted at CampConstitution.net. (Free membership required.) You may also be interested in his archived articles at Practical Homeschooling Magazine.
Teaching a Child to Read — The Natural Way!
Our approach using Ruth Beechick’s A Strong Start in Reading.
DIY Homeschooler 