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Question: My son is 6-1/2 years old and we use the "Sing, Spell, Read & Write" reading program and supplement with "Little Stories for Little Folks". My son is reading very well. However, with the "Sing, Spell, Read & Write" program, this curriculum is formatted so after each lesson is completed the child is suppose to be able to not only "read" the vocabulary words but also be able to spell and write them. However, I have not been focusing on the spelling and writing aspect of the program because this would take a great deal of time to work with my son's spelling and properly writing these words and he finds it very frustrating at this point. My intuition tells me this is not abnormal for him, its just the way he's able to learn right now. My son is progressing very well with reading but because this is my 1st time home schooling, I am wondering if I should STOP advancing him in reading and start focusing on the spelling and writing? Or should I continue with him advancing in his reading since he is doing so well with it, and deal with the spelling and writing component later? Thank you.
Answer:

Dear Parent,

Thank you for your question!

It seems to me that it would be easier for you if you used one reading program. My suggestion is that you pick the one that you and your son seem to be the happiest and most successful with. Whatever program you decide on using, it's important to follow the program faithfully. So, if you're going to use the Sing, Spell, Read and Write Program, or the Little Stories For Little Folks program, it's important to complete all components of the program.

I'm not familiar with the Sing, Spell, Read and Write program, but spelling and writing in the beginning of 1st grade can be too much for the student, as you have found.

If you decide to use the 1st grade lesson plans through Catholic Heritage Curricula, the recommended reading program is Little Stories For Little Folks. Halfway through the school year, the student begins with My Very First Catholic Speller. It is a very gentle way of introducing and reinforcing reading, spelling and writing at the same time.

I'm glad that your son enjoys reading, and does very well with this subject. That is so important to encourage and develop this. I would definitely continue his reading development. About halfway through the school year, you might begin working with spelling and writing. Because it is frustrating to him, I wouldn't worry about it too much at this point. You don't even necessarily have to use My Very First Catholic Speller until 2nd grade, or when you think he is ready.

God bless you and your family!

Laura Nicholson

   
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