Think your toddler needs flashcards and worksheets to learn reading? Think again! 📚
In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Maria Golden, educator, reading specialist, and mom of three—who reveals the shocking truth: by the time kids reach first grade, many already believe they're "bad at reading." 😢
What You'll Discover:
- Why teaching the alphabet first might actually be holding your child back
- The ONE foundational skill that 90% of kids are missing (hint: it's not letter recognition!)
- How a simple grocery store trip can become a powerful literacy lesson
- The "storytelling game" that builds comprehension skills without a single worksheet
- Why vocabulary matters more than you think—starting from the womb!
- Practical, play-based strategies that fit into your already chaotic day
Perfect for: ✅ Parents of toddlers and preschoolers ✅ Moms who feel overwhelmed by "educational activities" ✅ Anyone worried their child will struggle with reading ✅ Parents looking for screen-free learning ideas
Key Takeaways: 🎯 Rhyming comes before letter recognition 🎯 Vocabulary building starts at age 1 (or earlier!) 🎯 Sound awareness doesn't need visual letters 🎯 Learning happens naturally through conversation 🎯 You don't need to be a teacher—just be intentional
Resources Mentioned:
Growing in Literacy: http://www.growinginliteracy.comÂ
Connect with Maria Golden:Â Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growinginliteracy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growinginliteracy
Next Episode: Stay tuned for Part 2 where Maria shares specific activities and games you can start TODAY!
Get the first chapter of Sink or Swim Parenting FREE and discover more strategies to support your child's success without the overwhelm. Get Your Free Chapter Here - https://nataliemccabe.com/sink-or-swim-parenting
💬 Join the FREE Community Connect with other moms who get it! Join the Community - https://community.nataliemccabe.com/invitation?code=5G64A6
📞 Book Your FREE 1:1 Coaching Call: https://nataliemccabe.com/
Leave a Review: If this episode helped you feel less overwhelmed about your child's learning, please leave a 5-star review and share with another mama who needs to hear this!
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