A recent report entitled "Preventing Reading Difficulties in Young Children" (Snow, Burns, and Griffin, 1998) concludes that both phonics and whole language are important in teaching young children how to read. These two strategies--along with plenty of time for children to read, to be read to, and to write--are important components of balanced reading instruction. By providing a "Timely Topic" on balanced reading instruction within "Pathways to School Improvement," the North Central Regional Educational Laboratory (NCREL) aims to bring together the best resources in a central location for NCREL constituents. This paper presents a review of literature relating to balanced reading instruction and describes the benefits to children. A list of related publications, articles, and Internet resources is appended. (Contains 14 references.) (NKA)