#11: 13 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started Teaching Reading
Teaching reading is one of the most rewarding yet complex tasks an educator can take on. When I first started, I thought enthusiasm and a solid curriculum were enough—but experience quickly taught me that there was so much more to it. If I could go back in time, these are the things I wish I knew before teaching reading that would have saved me time, stress, and frustration.
1. You Don’t Have to Figure It All Out on Your Own
Many new teachers feel like they have to reinvent the wheel. But the Science of Reading provides decades of research on what works and what doesn’t. Instead of relying on trial and error, start by using proven, evidence-based strategies and save yourself years of guesswork.
2. Social Media Isn’t the Best Place for Reading Instruction Advice
While Pinterest and Instagram can be great for inspiration, they often lack the depth needed to implement a structured reading program. Look for professional development, research-backed resources, and experienced mentors to guide you.
3. Teach Phonemic Awareness Every Single Day
Phonemic awareness—the ability to hear and manipulate sounds in words—is one of the biggest predictors of reading success. This foundational skill needs to be practiced daily through activities like sound blending, segmenting, and phoneme manipulation.
4. Systematic Phonics Instruction is Non-Negotiable
Balanced literacy approaches often de-emphasize phonics, but explicit, systematic phonics instruction is crucial. Teach letter-sound relationships in a logical sequence, ensuring students build decoding skills step by step.
5. Not All Sight Words Should Be Memorized
Instead of having students memorize lists of sight words, use sound mapping techniques to help them connect phonemes to graphemes. This approach strengthens orthographic memory and makes learning high-frequency words much easier.
6. Decodable Texts Are a Game Changer
Leveled readers encourage guessing strategies, while decodable texts support phonics development by allowing students to practice words they’ve already been taught. Make the switch early to see rapid reading progress.
7. Assessments Are Your Best Friend
Regular assessments help pinpoint student needs so you can provide targeted instruction. Use diagnostic tools to identify gaps in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—then plan accordingly.
8. One-Size-Fits-All Reading Instruction Doesn’t Work
Every student is at a different place in their reading journey. Small group instruction allows you to meet students where they are and provide personalized, just-right lessons.
9. Rely on Small Groups for Maximum Impact
Teaching in small, flexible groups ensures each child gets the focused instruction they need without overwhelming you. Group students based on skill level rather than reading level for the best results.
10. Read-Alouds Build Comprehension and Language Skills
Students need exposure to rich vocabulary, diverse sentence structures, and engaging narratives. Daily read-alouds help build background knowledge and improve listening comprehension, setting the stage for independent reading success.
11. Don’t Waste Hours Creating Materials From Scratch
Save yourself time and stress by using ready-made, research-based resources instead of trying to DIY everything. Your energy is better spent delivering high-quality instruction, not reinventing lesson plans.
12. Reuse, Tweak, and Improve Lessons Over Time
Once you develop an effective system, stick with it! Instead of starting from scratch each year, refine and enhance your lessons based on student needs and successes.
13. Find a Supportive Teaching Community
Teaching reading can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Connect with like-minded educators for problem-solving, encouragement, and new ideas. Having a support network makes all the difference.
Bringing It All Together
If I had known these things before teaching reading, I would have saved myself countless hours of frustration. By implementing science-backed strategies, leaning on a support system, and using effective resources, you can help your students succeed while keeping your sanity intact.
Want More Support?
For step-by-step lesson plans, printable activities, and research-backed strategies, join The Science of Reading Formula—your go-to resource for effective literacy instruction. Click here to enroll now!
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