Weekly Review: Stepping Stones Together

I am so excited that I have been given the privilege to review an incredible reading program called Stepping Stones Together  developed by Dr. Erika Burton. This opportunity could not have come at a better time, as now is the time I am starting Claire's preschool learning at home, and have been searching for resources. Let me tell you, this is one resource I am very excited about having!

Stepping Stones Together is a program designed to help children ages 3-7 learn how to read. Once you have signed up for your subscription ,  you will receive immediate access to the program and all it has to offer. We chose the one year subscription so that Claire could move along at her own pace.

I was thoroughly impressed to see the wonderful selection of themes to choose from (animals, fairies, princesses, sports, transportation, superheros). Of course, Claire, being the girlie girl that she is, chose princesses to start with. She chose the title that she wanted to do first (it is recommended that the child choose the story), Alexis The Kind Princess.

We opened it up, and Claire was extremely impressed to see that her name was on the "cover" of the story! We then downloaded the PDF format and printed out the booklet and  flash cards that go along with the story.

Claire and I sat down together this past week and started into her book. We read the title, browsed the pictures, and just got a feel for the story. I read it through once for her. Next, it was Claire's turn. She "read" it through (following along with her finger), easily the first time. The sentences are repetitive, and the pictures give clues, which made it very easy for her grasp. We did the story writing prompts verbally for this first one, instead of drawing a picture or writing. We also went over the reading comprehension questions, which I love, and have been doing myself even before starting this program, to help her make the reading come alive, and use her critical thinking skills.

We have finished this book now, having gone through it twice, but Claire still wants to read it, she LOVES it! Just today she said to me "Mommy, my book has the word 'I' in it."! I knew at that moment, that this program is definitely worth having! To be honest, had it not been for this program, I don't know when I would have actually started teaching her how to read!

Just tonight, we have started on our second book, which again, she chose. This one was a little more difficult for her, and may require a little extra time, but I am confidant, with 20 min. of special snuggle and reading time, it will get easier as we move through each book.

We will also be using the flash cards, which contain frequently used sight words, in the program to play matching games, and other activities that help with reading as well.

I would also like to mention that since starting this program, Claire has an intense desire to learn how to write, so that she can write her own stories just like her books.

Check back next week to see how we are progressing!

DISCLAIMER: I received a one year subscription at 50% off the regular price for the purpose of conducting these reviews. However, all opinions expressed are solely my own and honest, and are not swayed by the discounted price.