Many moons ago when I was in grade school, I remember my passionate 1^st grade teacher, Ms. Wells, who — much like a drill sergeant — taught me to read by pure intimidation. The “Dick and Jane” books were cool because of the pictures, but sounding out those words made me sweat — I remember getting stuck on what an “A” was supposed to sound like — “Jane” was a long A, but “Apple” was not – my 1^st graders in crime thought it was quite funny when I pronounced Apple with a long A.

Ms. Wells thought I was “being clever” – and that is possible. And that clever approach was adopted by my youngest when she took up reading. Thankfully I have a very patient and talented wife who, in addition to some top teachers in Edmonds, helped my daughters advance in their reading abilities. I would have really messed them up.

Today, learning to read in such a high-tech, short-hand, emoticons environment can be challenging — and then I was introduced to Reading Eggs.

First, let me state that I’ve not been paid to endorse or write about Reading Eggs — a unique online world where children learn to read. I’m truly sharing this information because of the long-term value it can have on your children…and the peace of mind it can bring you as a parent.

Reading Eggs brings the fun back into learning how to read. It supports each child’s learning by offering individual, one-on-one lessons that will allow your child to progress at his/her own rate.

As parents, we all know how technology has infiltrated almost every area of our life…and our children’s lives. But here is a way to know that those 15 minutes of technology time a day are adding value.

The program has been developed by a highly experienced team of educational teachers, writers and developers. The Reading Eggs program focuses on a core reading curriculum of phonics and sight words using skills and strategies essential for sustained reading success. It completely supports what children learn at school and will help to improve your child’s results at school.

As their website shares, and I concur, “With interactive animations, fun games, great songs and lots of rewards, Reading Eggs is a great place to learn to read. Children are highly motivated to return again and again. At Reading Eggs, learning to read is enjoyable as well as very rewarding. Every lesson ends with a new book and a new critter to add to your growing collection.”

Here’s the cool part – they are offering a FREE 4 week trial of Reading Eggs for parents and teachers. What better way to have your son or daughter brush up for the start of the school year?

Bottom line:

• This powerful educational program is based on the most up-to-date research on how children learn to read.
• The lessons use animation, activities and reward games to keep children motivated.
• The program is completely interactive to keep children on task.
• Children want to come back because they are having fun as they learn.
• When children start the program, they can complete a placement quiz to ensure they are starting at the correct reading level.

Parents, be warned. You just might find yourself engrossed in Reading Eggs as well.

— By Michael Schindler

Michael Schindler, Navy veteran, and president of Edmonds-based Operation Military Family, is a guest writer for several national publications, author of the book “Operation Military Family” and “The Military Wire” blog. He is also a popular keynote and workshop speaker who reaches thousands of service members and their families every year through workshops and seminars that include “How to Battle-Ready Your Relationship” or “What Your Mother-in-Law Didn’t Tell You.” He received the 2010 Outstanding Patriotic Service Award from the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs.