Read, Write & Type Online

Read, Write & Type is an online reading program for kids ages 6-9  that incorporates typing instruction into the learning to read process.  The lessons stand out from other reading programs we’ve tried in that  they teach kids to write at the same time they’re learning to read,  which should engage higher brain function than reading alone.

 Read, write & Type Online incorporates equal emphasis on phonetic sounds of all parts of the word.  Instead of just knowing that an apple starts with "a", Read, Write & Type also  teaches kids that the middle part of "pig" is important, as well as the  end of "kick." 

 The program doesn't wait until all the beginning sounds are mastered  before introducing the rest. 

 “We have been using Read, Write & Type to support small group instruction in reading for first grade children  who are identified as at risk for reading failure. This project is being  conducted with support from the National Institute of Child Health and  Human Development. With its emphasis on phonological awareness,  letter-sound knowledge and phonetic decoding in reading and spelling,  

 The early years are a special time of  innocence and wonder that we never get back.   That’s why I always  wanted my kids to have an opportunity to explore the world in their own  ways and to learn freely.  I also didn’t want their thinking to be  influenced by the Disney channel, TV commercials or video games, so no  computers and very little (supervised, commercial-free) TV time for my  kids.  

 I would recommend this product to teachers or parents who wish to  combine keyboarding skills with early literacy practice.  Extensive  research and background materials from the company explain the many  benefits of the program.  I think it would provide a definite advantage  for today's children who will probably be using keyboards as much or  more than pencil and paper! 

 The Family Literacy Project, funded by the Knight Foundation, informally explored the effectiveness of Read, Write & Type with children and adults learning English as a second language. First and second graders used their new Read, Write & Type skills to help an adult family member learn English. A group of  Vietnamese families and a group of Hispanic families participated for  two nights a week in four 6-week sessions.