Episode 213: The Science of Reading

The Science of Reading is a research-backed approach grounded in decades of neuroscience and psychology. English, Language, and Development Literacy Coordinator Jessica Hackenson explains that reading must be intentionally taught through clear, explicit instruction in foundational areas such as phonological awareness, systematic phonics, and background knowledge. Jessica shares practical ways parents can support literacy at home, including the power of reading aloud to build vocabulary and prosody, while avoiding approaches that feel overly repetitive or discouraging. She offers insight and confidence to support strong, lasting literacy development.