Argues that it is possible for stories to both entertain the reader and teach reading techniques. Suggests that the apprentice approach to reading instruction, using good stories and with judicious intervention by teachers, can be rigorous. (MG)

Describes a program in which parents demonstrated a willingness to become involved in the reading activities of their preschool children, following involvement in Share-a-Story sessions. (NH)

Describes a pictogram system in which letters are made to look like human and animal characters as a way of teaching phonics to children; tells how teachers have imaginatively implemented the system through activities in such areas as drama, singing, and story telling. (GT)

Describes the development and use of the Middle Infant Screening Test. Isolates factors which directly relate to children's progress in early reading and writing development. (RS)

Suggests that some Australian schools in the 1980s took up too enthusiastically what may be called the Effortless Theory of Learning to Read. Describes how Paired Reading can work and what can go wrong with such instruction. (RS)

Describes a successful literacy project involving the teacher, parents, and children in one kindergarten class in a small rural community in New South Wales, Australia. Discusses the classroom setting, teacher's approaches and reading style, introduction of a "writing center," parent involvement, role of the school library and librarian,…

Describes a project in which parents were asked to write comments about the picture books their children were reading at home. Contains samples of parent comments. (DF)