TOS Review - The Reading Kingdom

Reading Kingdom takes a different approach to reading.

They believe that phonics just doesn't work.

They say, "Put simply, if phonics worked, the word would be spelled 'foniks.' " To get around this problem, phonics has almost 600 rules that are impossible to memorize and riddled with exceptions."

I agree with this to a certain extent. I think that for young readers, phonics is the way to go.

Reading Kingdom says that there are 6 skills to reading and writing success, and that phonics only covers one.

Here's the company description, straight from the Reading Kingdom web site:

The Reading Kingdom is a fun, easy-to-use online program that teaches children 4-10 years old how to read and write to a third grade level.

• It customizes itself to each child
• Most children can do the program on their own after just a few weeks
  
• It's fun and children enjoy doing it
• It's created by Dr. Marion Blank, one of the world's top experts in literacy
• It works with any other curriculum a child may be using
• And, it's the only system that teaches all 6 skills needed for reading & writing success

You can learn more about how Reading Kingdom is different than other programs by downloading this PDF.

The Pros:

• Child can work fairly independently, once he gets the hang of the program
• Lessons are short enough to hold the attention of wiggly children
• Computer interface is attractive and fun
• Program works on a variety of skills
• Easy to use
• Colorful and fun "games" that are teaching reading and writing
• successfully used in a variety of settings
• It's kid customized. The Reading Kingdom customizes itself to a child so they don't become frustrated with material that is too advanced for them or bored with material they already know.
• Excellent and friendly customer service.

The Cons:

• Precise timing necessary for the program may frustrate some children.
• With the focus on keyboarding and spelling needed for success, completing Letter Land can become tedious and discouraging.
• Weak in phonics. If you child learns best with phonics, or you are a proponent of a strong phonics base, this might not be the program for you.
• The time allowed to type in a response could be longer. This can become discouraging.
• The cost is high for the average homeschooling family. They do offer scholarship programs though.

Important Information About Reading Kingdom

Website: www.readingkingdom.com

Price: $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year. 30 day free trial available.

Age Range: 4-10 or those reading below a 3rd grade level.

To Learn More: Download this PDF from Reading Kingdom

To find out what the rest of the Crew has to say about Reading Kingdom, visit the Homeschool Crew Blog!

*Disclosure: I received a free subscription to Reading Kingdom in exchange for my honest review.