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The Reading Project

The Reading Project

By Ashley DiMercurio

Hey there! Welcome to The Reading Project podcast where I help you build stronger readers one episode at a time. I am Ashley - Your Reading Tutor - and my experience as an online tutor, classroom teacher, and the mother of a reluctant reader, has allowed me to bring a fun and effective approach to building stronger and more confident readers. I created The Reading Project after working with dozens of families in my business that needed support in helping their readers at home. I want parents to know that you don’t have to be a teacher to help your struggling reader! I’m here to help!
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Episode 17: 3 Reasons to Watch Movies this Summer

The Reading ProjectMay 14, 2021

00:00
10:12
4.12 Developing a Love of Reading with Jody Sperling

4.12 Developing a Love of Reading with Jody Sperling

In this episode, I'm joined by Jody Sperling for a conversation about helping our kiddos develop a life-long love of reading.

Jody Sperling is the author of the Luke in Time mysteries and host of TRBM a podcast for authors who want to get their books into more readers' hands.

He’s also hitchhiked across the country and lived out of his van.

You can connect with Jody on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠.

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

This book and resource list may contain Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through these links. Thanks for your support!

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠you can do so here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pinterest.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Send me an email at ashleyd@yourreadingtutor.com.

Or check out my website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Your Reading Tutor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Reading Rewards System⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Mar 11, 202425:38
4.11 Literacy Hacks for Busy Families, Part 2

4.11 Literacy Hacks for Busy Families, Part 2

This is part two of a two-part series on literacy hacks for busy families. Catch part one, here.

In this episode, I'm sharing practical and time-efficient tips for parents and caregivers who may have busy schedules but still want to foster a culture of literacy at home. I am going to share 10 different ideas, 5 in this episode and 5 in part one.  

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

This book and resource list may contain Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through these links. Thanks for your support!

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠you can do so here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pinterest.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Send me an email at ashleyd@yourreadingtutor.com.

Or check out my website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Your Reading Tutor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Reading Rewards System⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Feb 26, 202412:15
4.10 Using Children's Books to Help Kids Process Emotions with Hailey Glynn

4.10 Using Children's Books to Help Kids Process Emotions with Hailey Glynn

In this episode, I'm joined by Hailey Glynn for a conversation about how we can use children's books to help our kiddos process difficult situations and learn more about themselves.  

Hailey, a former elementary teacher from Buffalo, NY, unexpectedly ventured into storytelling during the pandemic. Her debut, "When Virona the Corona Came to Town," became an instant hit, sparking Hailey's journey into publishing.

Hailey continues to expand her repertoire with other empowering children's books and an activity book that sparks creativity, "The Squiggle Book." Hailey writes and illustrates her own stories and is also the creative force behind Growing With Glynn, her publishing business, where she helps aspiring authors bring their book ideas to life too. The more amazing children's books that are out in the world, the merrier!

You can connect with Hailey by visiting her website, ⁠Growing with Glynn⁠, or by finding her on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠TikTok⁠.

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

This book and resource list may contain Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through these links. Thanks for your support!

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠you can do so here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pinterest.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Send me an email at ashleyd@yourreadingtutor.com.

Or check out my website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Your Reading Tutor⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Reading Rewards System⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.


Feb 12, 202425:33
4.9 Literacy Hacks for Busy Families, Part 1

4.9 Literacy Hacks for Busy Families, Part 1

This is part one of a two-part series on literacy hacks for busy families.

In this episode, I'm sharing practical and time-efficient tips for parents and caregivers who may have busy schedules but still want to foster a culture of literacy at home. I am going to share 10 different ideas, 5 in this episode and 5 in part two.  

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

This book and resource list may contain Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through these links. Thanks for your support!

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, ⁠⁠⁠⁠you can do so here⁠⁠⁠⁠. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pinterest.⁠⁠⁠⁠

Send me an email at ashleyd@yourreadingtutor.com.

Or check out my website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠Your Reading Tutor⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my ⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Reading Rewards System⁠⁠⁠⁠ and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Jan 29, 202413:28
4.8 Writing to Improve Comprehension with Heather O'Donnell

4.8 Writing to Improve Comprehension with Heather O'Donnell

In this episode, I'm joined by Heather O’Donnell for a conversation about writing skills that will help your kids and students improve their comprehension.  

Heather O’Donnell MS.Ed and Ed.M began her career as a classroom teacher. Working in both special and general education classroom settings, she left the classroom in 2018 to open New Paltz Multisensory, an online and in-person tutoring practice in New Paltz, NY. After identifying a need for private multisensory reading instruction in her community, the practice has grown to include a team of 13 tutors providing online and in-person multisensory reading, writing, and math instruction to students in over 10 states. 

Heather uses the Orton-Gillingham approach to diagnostically provide explicit instruction so that kids learn to love learning again! 

You can connect with Heather by visiting her website, New Paltz Multisensory, or by finding her on FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest.

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

This book and resource list may contain Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through these links. Thanks for your support!

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, ⁠⁠⁠⁠you can do so here⁠⁠⁠⁠. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pinterest.⁠⁠⁠⁠

Send me an email at ashleyd@yourreadingtutor.com.

Or check out my website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠Your Reading Tutor⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my ⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Reading Rewards System⁠⁠⁠⁠ and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Jan 15, 202439:09
4.7 A Few of My Favorite Things: Reading, Writing, & Online Learning Gifts

4.7 A Few of My Favorite Things: Reading, Writing, & Online Learning Gifts

In this special holiday episode, we're diving into the world of reading, writing, and online learning with a guide to thoughtful and educational Christmas gifts for kids!

With the holiday season right around the corner, I've curated a list of gifts that will inspire young minds and foster a love for learning. Whether it's enhancing literacy skills or making online education more engaging, I've got you covered.

Let's unwrap these fantastic gift ideas!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

This book and resource list may contain Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through these links. Thanks for your support!

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, ⁠⁠⁠you can do so here⁠⁠⁠. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links: ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠Pinterest.⁠⁠⁠

Send me an email at ashleyd@yourreadingtutor.com.

Or check out my website at ⁠⁠⁠Your Reading Tutor⁠⁠⁠ for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my ⁠⁠⁠FREE Reading Rewards System⁠⁠⁠ and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Dec 18, 202311:00
4.6 Helping Struggling & Reluctant Writers at Home with Ashley Gilbert

4.6 Helping Struggling & Reluctant Writers at Home with Ashley Gilbert

In this episode, I'm joined by Ashley Gilbert. Ashley is a former elementary school teacher who took her favorite parts of the classroom and turned them into a successful and thriving tutoring business, Keep It Up Tutoring! She's on a mission to help K-5 students become better readers, spellers, and writers.

Ashley has a Master's Degree in teaching and has been LETRS trained. When she's not working, Ashley enjoys spending time with her pets, playing the clarinet, and gardening.

Join us for a conversation about how we can help our struggling and reluctant writers at home.

For more from Ashley, check out ⁠⁠Keep It Up Tutoring⁠⁠ and follow her on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Facebook⁠!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

This book and resource list may contain Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through these links. Thanks for your support!

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, ⁠⁠you can do so here⁠⁠. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Pinterest.⁠⁠

Send me an email at ashleyd@yourreadingtutor.com.

Or check out my website at ⁠⁠Your Reading Tutor⁠⁠ for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my ⁠⁠FREE Reading Rewards System⁠⁠ and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Dec 04, 202323:10
4.5 Supporting Executive Function at Home with Carrie Bonnett

4.5 Supporting Executive Function at Home with Carrie Bonnett

In this episode, I'm joined by executive function coach, Carrie Bonnett.

Carrie is a veteran teacher and lifelong listmaker based in Bend, Oregon where she lives with her husband and two children.

Carrie works with families all over the United States. Her no-shame approach and the strategies and tools that she teaches empower students to thrive in school and in life, help parents and teachers support their children, and help adults get on top of all that life requires.

In addition to coaching, she is also an adjunct instructor for early career teachers at the University of Portland in Oregon.

Listen in as we talk about executive function and how we can focus on building executive function skills within our families.

For more from Carrie, check out ⁠CarrieBonnett.com⁠ and follow her on ⁠Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

This book and resource list may contain Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through these links. Thanks for your support!

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links: ⁠Facebook⁠⁠Instagram⁠, and ⁠Pinterest.⁠

Send me an email at ashleyd@yourreadingtutor.com.

Or check out my website at ⁠Your Reading Tutor⁠ for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my ⁠FREE Reading Rewards System⁠ and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Nov 06, 202330:58
4.4 Why Your Kids Need to Read More Nonfiction!

4.4 Why Your Kids Need to Read More Nonfiction!

In this episode, I'm talking about the importance of vocabulary development in children and why your kids need to read more nonfiction!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

This book and resource list may contain Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through these links. Thanks for your support!

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links: ⁠Facebook⁠⁠Instagram⁠, and ⁠Pinterest.⁠

Send me an email at ashleyd@yourreadingtutor.com.

Or check out my website at ⁠Your Reading Tutor⁠ for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my ⁠FREE Reading Rewards System⁠ and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Oct 23, 202312:59
4.1 Is Your Child Struggling at School? with Scotti Weintraub

4.1 Is Your Child Struggling at School? with Scotti Weintraub

We're back with season 4!

In this episode, I'm joined by Scotti Weintraub of Reframe Parenting. Scotti Weintraub is the mom of 2 teen boys. After supporting her own struggling children, she's using her hard-won experience to save other parents time and heartache with her business, Reframe Parenting. She loves nothing more than helping other parents find the knowledge & resources they need.

Listen in as we talk about the signs that your child might be struggling in school and what you can do as a parent to advocate for them!

For more from Scotti, check out Reframe Parenting and follow her on Instagram!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

This book and resource list may contain Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through these links. Thanks for your support!

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links: FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest.

Send me an email at ashleyd@yourreadingtutor.com.

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Oct 19, 202320:41
4.2 10 Questions to Consider Before Reading a Banned Book with Your Child

4.2 10 Questions to Consider Before Reading a Banned Book with Your Child

This year, Banned Book Week is October 1-7.

In this episode, I'm taking on a controversial topic... reading banned books with your children.

Tune in for an explanation of why some books get banned and ten questions to consider before reading banned books with your kiddos.

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

This book and resource list may contain Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through these links. Thanks for your support!

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links: FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest.

Send me an email at ashleyd@yourreadingtutor.com.

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Oct 19, 202312:47
4.3 Best Practices for Teaching Students with Dyslexia with Aly Young

4.3 Best Practices for Teaching Students with Dyslexia with Aly Young

In this episode, I'm joined by Aly Young.

Aly's background in psychology and sociology led her to explore her passion for education and learning by teaching in various settings, from public, to private, to charter. In each school, Aly noticed that kids always struggled with the material, not because they weren't smart or trying, but because the approach was wrong. Aly noticed these struggling learners because she's been there and she's seen how the system fails so many children who learn differently.

So, she decided to do something about it! Aly created The Learning Lab, a place where children’s learning styles are acknowledged and embraced.

Listen in as we talk about best practices for teaching students with dyslexia and practical tips for supporting your dyslexic learner at home!

For more from Aly, check out The Learning Lab and follow her on Instagram and Facebook!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

This book and resource list may contain Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through these links. Thanks for your support!

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links: FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest.

Send me an email at ashleyd@yourreadingtutor.com.

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Oct 19, 202320:34
3.37 That's a Wrap on Season 3!

3.37 That's a Wrap on Season 3!

It's our season 3 finale! Wow, I can't beleive how incredible this season has been!

Tune in as we take a stroll down memory lane, get a sneak peek at what's to come over the summer, and I'll offer my opinion on the debate over whether kids should take the summer off or keep tutoring.

Stick around until the end for all of the details on my fun summer family reading challenge!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.


May 22, 202307:29
3.36 Keep Your Child Learning All Summer!
May 15, 202306:44
3.35 Understanding Reading Levels

3.35 Understanding Reading Levels

In this episode, I'm breaking down reading levels and the different types of systems used for leveling.

Tune in for a brief overview of five different methods/types of levels, how they work, and what they tell us!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

May 08, 202311:49
3.34 5 Questions to Ask During Parent-Teacher Conferences with Margie Figueroa

3.34 5 Questions to Ask During Parent-Teacher Conferences with Margie Figueroa

May 01, 202324:41
3.33 All About Decodable Texts with Emily Gibbons

3.33 All About Decodable Texts with Emily Gibbons

In this episode, I'm joined by return guest, Emily Gibbons! She is a mom of four and an educator who loves creating, sharing, and talking about all things literacy. As a certified Orton-Gillingham educator and dyslexia specialist, she strives to provide resources that assist teachers, families, and children with all aspects of structured literacy and dyslexia.

In this episode, we're talking all about decodable books and texts!


Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Learn more about Emily by visiting The Literacy Nest. You can connect with her on Instagram or Facebook. And, check out her podcast, Together in Literacy!

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Apr 24, 202327:32
3.32 Why Haikus and Limericks are My Favorite Poems for Kids!
Apr 17, 202307:56
3.31 My Child Has Dyslexia, Now What? with Lisa Parnello

3.31 My Child Has Dyslexia, Now What? with Lisa Parnello

In this episode, I'm happy to share a conversation with Lisa Parnello.

Lisa is a dyslexia expert with over 15 years of experience including public schools, and private schools, with a primary focus on students with learning differences such as dyslexia, and dysgraphia. She started her career teaching general education students and discovered her heart was set on helping the children who struggled the most.

She earned her M.Ed. in special education and has since dedicated her life to helping the most struggling learners. She is a certified Wilson Dyslexia Therapist and a Wilson Credentialed Trainer. Lisa served as the Lower School Director of Sand Hill School at CHC in Palo Alto before expanding Parnello Education Services.

She trains and guides teachers as they develop into successful special education instructors including mentoring teachers and instructional coaching. Tune in to this episode for the next steps parents can take after getting a dyslexia diagnosis for their child, an explanation of what a dyslexia therapist does, and book recommendations for parents and kids.

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Learn more about Lisa by visiting Parnello Education Services. You can connect with her on Instagram or Facebook.

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.


Apr 10, 202323:12
3.30 Re-release: 5 Ways to Celebrate National Poetry Month at Home

3.30 Re-release: 5 Ways to Celebrate National Poetry Month at Home

April is National Poetry Month! What are you planning to do this month to celebrate poetry in your home? If you've got nothing planned yet or you're looking for fun ideas, I've got you covered!

In this episode, I'll let you know why I love poetry and why I think poetry is great for children.

Tune in for five fun ways you can celebrate National Poetry Month at home!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Apr 03, 202317:10
3.29 Spanish with Sandy! with Sandy Jackson

3.29 Spanish with Sandy! with Sandy Jackson

In this episode, I'm joined by Spanish teacher, Sandy Jackson!

Sandy is a Spanish teacher turned tutor that helps families bring Spanish into their homes in easy and approachable ways.

She is a mother of two toddlers and has used her experience in the classroom and in her personal life to create Spanish with Sandy: her tutoring business. Sandy provides families of all proficiencies a starting point to build their Spanish and ways to implement and reinforce it at home. Sandy offers programs that not only help young language learners start their Spanish-speaking journeys wherever they are but also bring their adults along with them through guides and support within the programs.

If she's not doing LIVE lessons, she's adding to her Podcast: Spanish with Sandy, which offers useful phrases for the whole family.

Tune in as we talk about the connection between learning to read and learning a new language and how we, as parents, caregivers, and educators, can help our kiddos tackle these new skills.

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Learn more about Sandy by visiting Spanish With Sandy. You can connect with her on Instagram.

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Mar 27, 202336:43
3.28 Spring Into Reading
Mar 20, 202313:42
3.27 Re-release: What is Word Study with Diane Talbot

3.27 Re-release: What is Word Study with Diane Talbot

A few weeks ago, I shared episode 3.24: Make Word Study Fun! Today, I'd like for you to check out this re-released episode from season 2 featuring Diane Talbot all about word study. I hope you enjoy!

I am super excited to bring you, Diane Talbot, as a guest to the podcast. She is the owner of Spiral Skills Tutoring in Boulder, Colorado, and Metamorphic Word Study which provides Orton-Gillingham-aligned word study, training, and products. She's a frequent speaker and has all kinds of amazing certifications in the field of education.

Today, she's going to talk to us about word study! Specifically, what it is, what it means, and why it's important to include in reading and literacy instruction.

Diane has offered a special Word Study freebie JUST for our podcast listeners. You can grab it right here!

If you'd like to reach out to Diane, you can contact her at diane@spiralskillstutoring.com

Follow along with her on Facebook - Spiral Skills Tutoring, Metamorphic Word, or join her Facebook Community for learners studying and sharing insights about the structure and meaning of the English language.

You can also find Diane on - Spiral Skills Tutoring and Metamorphic Word.

And, check out her websites for Spiral Skills Tutoring and Metamorphic Word.

Diane mentioned a helpful app she loves using with her family: EtymOnline!

If you’d like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don’t forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Mar 13, 202333:15
3.26 5 Things Families Need to Know About Learning to Read
Mar 06, 202310:38
3.25 Using Picture Books to Teach Social-Emotional Skills with Judd Shaw

3.25 Using Picture Books to Teach Social-Emotional Skills with Judd Shaw

In this episode, I'm joined by children's book author, Judd Shaw!

Judd B. Shaw likes to bring out his inner knight in shining armor. He does that through his work as a New Jersey attorney representing injury victims, as a parent, and by creative writing. Judd shares his passion for helping others with his imaginary character, Sterling the Knight

Tune in for a great conversation about using picture books to teach social-emotional skills!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Learn more about Judd B. Shaw by visiting his website or the Sterling the Knight series website. You can connect with Judd on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.


Feb 27, 202325:23
3.24 Make Word Study Fun!

3.24 Make Word Study Fun!

Are your children doing Word Study at school? A listener recently told me that her kids are doing Word Study at school and they don't have anything nice to say about it...

In this episode, I'm talking all about Word Study. What it is, why it's important, and how you can make it more fun for your kids!

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Feb 20, 202311:02
3.23 Storitopia & the 3 Types of Podcast for Kids! with Merideth Kelly

3.23 Storitopia & the 3 Types of Podcast for Kids! with Merideth Kelly

Here at the Reading Project Podcast, we love storytelling! 

In this episode, I'm joined by Merideth Kelly, the founder and creator of Storitopia. Storitopia is a new podcast player just for kids! It was created to give both kids and caregivers a tool to discover awesome content. Storitopia's goal is to create a community where stories are shared, discovery and learning are encouraged, and storytelling is used as a way for kids to make connections, create togetherness, and foster empathy and understanding.  

Merideth left the traditional workforce pre-pandemic. She always dreamed of building her own business with an impact that she could be proud of.  So, she designed and created the Storitopia app. This has been a huge project for her and she is incredibly proud of the work she has done!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you want more from Merideth and Storitopia, check them out on Instagram. You can also check out their website, here.

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Feb 13, 202340:12
3.22 20 Ways to Read and Write Beyond the Pages of a Book
Feb 06, 202314:60
3.21 Using Your Virtual Village to Support Reading with Sarah Travers
Jan 30, 202323:32
3.20 Using Music to Increase Fluency and Motivate Reluctant Readers

3.20 Using Music to Increase Fluency and Motivate Reluctant Readers

In this very exciting solo episode, we are going to talk about how you can use music to help your child with their reading fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary skills.

We'll start by discussing exactly what fluency is. Then, we'll look at using favorite and familiar songs to encourage and engage reluctant readers.

Tune in for a really fun way to encourage fluency, improve comprehension, and build vocabulary!

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.


Jan 23, 202310:22
3.19 Teach Your Students How They are Best Able to Learn with Olivia Richardson

3.19 Teach Your Students How They are Best Able to Learn with Olivia Richardson

I'm so excited to welcome Olivia Richardson to The Reading Project Podcast. 

Olivia is a reading interventionist and first-year, 1st-grade teacher. After school, she uses her signature 3-step framework to help her students master phonics quickly so they can finally read their favorite books!

Tune in to this episode where we'll be discussing learningg styles and tips for teaching your students how they best learn!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you want more from Olivia, check her out on Instagram. You can also check out her website, here.

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Jan 16, 202332:02
3.18 Dyslexia Debunked with Emily Gibbons

3.18 Dyslexia Debunked with Emily Gibbons

I'm so excited to welcome Emily Gibbons of The Literacy Nest to The Reading Project Podcast. She is a mom of four and an educator who loves creating and blogging about all things literacy. As a certified Orton Gillingham educator, she seeks to provide resources that assist teachers, families, and children with all aspects of structured literacy and dyslexia.

In this episode, Emily chats with me about the basics of dyslexia. We talk about what it is, what parents should be watching for if they suspect their child might be struggling with dyslexia, and what advice she can give families who are in this position, or who already know they have a child that has dyslexia.

If you want to follow Emily and The Literacy Nest, check out her website and the links below!

Facebook or Instagram

If you want to follow me on Social Media I can be found at the following links:

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.


Jan 09, 202345:28
3.17 4 Reading Error-Correction Tips & Tricks with Lindsey Norton

3.17 4 Reading Error-Correction Tips & Tricks with Lindsey Norton

Have you ever wondered what to do when you're reading with your kiddo at home and they make a mistake? In this episode, I'm joined by a special guest, Lindsey Norton. Lindsey is a former classroom teacher turned private tutor. She's the owner of Kids Tutoring Online and she's been educating preschoolers-fifth graders since 2014.

Lindsey is 100% committed to the Science of Reading and using Orton-Gillingham methods for all students. Lindsey is on pace to become a certified Orton-Gillingham practitioner at the Associate level by May of 2022.

Tune in to this episode as we chat about error correction and feedback for students. Lindsey offers four great tips for how to handle this tricky situation.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

If you'd like more from Lindsey, check out Kids Tutoring Online.

You can also follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so right here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Jan 02, 202331:14
3.16 Beginning Readers and Struggling Readers. What's the Difference? with Laurie Molnar

3.16 Beginning Readers and Struggling Readers. What's the Difference? with Laurie Molnar

Let me introduce you to Laurie Molnar. Laurie is a certified Level OG (Orton-Gillingham) practitioner with over 35 years of experience teaching students in public, private, and homeschool settings. She is also a learning disability and dyslexia specialist.

Laurie knows we all learn best and are willing to make mistakes when we are relaxed and happy. Learning is a process and it’s important to celebrate progress over perfection. As a private tutor for years, Laurie is always looking for the best ways to show students what they are doing right, so she can help them understand what they need to practice.

In this episode, we discuss effective and gentle ways to help beginning or struggling readers build confidence in reading without guessing!

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

If you'd like more from Laurie, check out her Kitchen Table Learners.

You can also follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so right here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.


Dec 26, 202237:49
3.15 Helping Kids Find Their Voices Through Writing with Liz Ward

3.15 Helping Kids Find Their Voices Through Writing with Liz Ward

I'm often asked for more episodes about writing, helping reluctant writers, or tips and tricks for getting kids to write more.

In this episode, I'm joined by Liz Ward. Liz is a writing teacher who has 12 years of experience as a brick-and-mortar teacher. She is currently a teacher librarian and teaches writing classes part-time on Outschool. She has two kids ages two and five and her favorite book series is Wings of Fire. 

In this episode, Liz is going to share more about ways to encourage reluctant writers. 

Tune in to find out some of the cool things Liz is doing with kids and writing in her Outschool classes.

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you want more from Liz, check her out on Instagram or Pinterest. You can also check out her class on Outschool here

You can also follow her on

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Dec 19, 202243:49
3.14 Writing Books with Your Kids' Stories

3.14 Writing Books with Your Kids' Stories

I think that all families should be making books with their children's stories! In this episode, I'm sharing the why and the how of making books with your kids' words, pictures, and stories.

I'll cover why this is not only super fun but also super important and exactly how you can do it!

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Dec 12, 202209:28
3.13 Teaching Reading and Living Bilingually with Melissa Muir

3.13 Teaching Reading and Living Bilingually with Melissa Muir

Dec 05, 202229:01
3.12 Help! My Child Doesn't Like to Read
Nov 28, 202211:38
3.11 How to Support Skills Development in Your Everyday Routines with Melissa Wood

3.11 How to Support Skills Development in Your Everyday Routines with Melissa Wood

In this episode, I'm joined by Melissa Wood. 

Melissa Wood studied elementary and early childhood education, as well as early childhood special education. She has been in the field for nearly 20 years and has a passion for child development. She finds her current role as the Early Education Director for a Supervisory Union in northern Vermont very rewarding and loves digging into the research to support early learning. 

As a mom of her own preschooler, Melissa is able to connect foundational skills into her family's daily home routines. There are no workbooks, drills, or practicing - it just happens naturally, and she's excited to share some tips with you.

Tune in as we dig into early literacy and how you can support skill development in your everyday routines.

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you'd like to contact Melissa, you can email her at weprefertoplay@gmail.com

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Nov 14, 202242:01
3.10 Gameschooling for Language Arts with Cait Curley

3.10 Gameschooling for Language Arts with Cait Curley

Boy, do I have a special episode for you here! In this episode, I'm joined by Cait Curley of My Little Poppies, who I've been following for years, she is just amazing.

Cait Curley, MA/CAGS is a school psychologist and unexpected homeschool mom to three outside-the-box kiddos. She is the founder of My Little Poppies, where she writes about homeschooling gifted and twice-exceptional children and teens. She is one half of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast. 

Cait is also the creator of Never Board Learning, an online community of creative parents and educators who embrace play-based learning and gameschooling to meet the needs of their unique children. 

Cait lives in NH with her husband, 14-year-old son, 12-year-old daughter, and 11-year-old son.

Tune in to this episode as we talk all about gameschooling for Language Arts! 

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you want more from Cait, check out My Little Poppies, The Homeschool Sisters Podcast, and Never board Learning.

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Nov 07, 202241:22
3.9 Middle School Literacy and How To Expand Vocabulary with Krysta Koppel

3.9 Middle School Literacy and How To Expand Vocabulary with Krysta Koppel

In this episode, we're focusing on middle school learners and how to help those students continue to build their vocabularies. 

I'm joined by Krystal Koppel, and I can't wait for you to meet her!

As an educator with over 13 years of classroom experience, Krysta has a passion for helping middle school students (and their families) come alive as they grow their literacy skills. Krysta currently homeschools her own 2 children while operating an online tutoring business that provides support and resources for families.

Tune in to this episode for some great tips on building vocabulary with middle schoolers plus some fun app and game recommendations!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you want more from Krysta, check out Engage Communication Co.

You can also follow her on Facebook or Instagram

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Oct 24, 202233:18
3.8 5 Podcasts My 10-Year-Old is Loving Right Now
Oct 17, 202209:38
3.7 Things to Consider When Looking for a Tutor with Josh Mann

3.7 Things to Consider When Looking for a Tutor with Josh Mann

In this episode, I'm joined by Josh Mann. Josh is very passionate about helping students succeed. He has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College in writing and also studied at The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, and Oxford University. He has extensive experience tutoring and teaching at many private schools and homeschooling organizations in the Los Angeles area.

He has taught literature, creative writing, life skills, drama, film, and Shakespeare classes to students of all ages. He currently teaches creative writing and essay writing classes. He also specializes in helping students who have learning disabilities and behavior challenges, such as Dyslexia, Autism, ADD, and Asperger's syndrome. 

Josh incorporates life coaching skills into his process of working with students, in order to assist with organization, scheduling, executive functioning, time management, social skill improvement, and motivation.

In this episode, we discuss whether or not children with learning differences should take a break in the summer or keep tutoring. We also discuss what parents should look for in a tutor for their child and what tutors should know about working with learning disabled children. 

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you want more from Josh, check out Collaborative Tutoring.

You can also follow him on Facebook and connect on LinkedIn.

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Oct 10, 202225:26
3.6 Practical Tips for Working on Reading Comprehension at Home
Oct 03, 202205:39
3.5 Having Meaningful Conversations About Books With Older Students with Laura Kebart

3.5 Having Meaningful Conversations About Books With Older Students with Laura Kebart

Do you ever feel like you can't keep up with all of the reading your middle schooler is doing? As parents, we want to know what our kids are reading and have meaningful conversations with them about books. But, seriously, it can become difficult as they get older!

Well, have no fear - Laura Kebart is here!

In this episode, I'm joined by Laura Kebart. Laura serves super-busy middle school ELA teachers and parents who have active lives outside of teaching or homeschooling. She works with teachers and parents who cherish their personal family time and who refuse to sacrifice one more precious moment prepping for each day's lessons!  

Laura pulls from her 20 years of teaching experience along with her curriculum design degree to create meaningful reading and writing lessons that engage kids while saving the teachers and homeschool parents 10+ hours a week of prep time!

Tune in to this episode as Laura shares all about how you can have conversations about novels with your kids, even when you haven't read the book yet (or in a long time!) 

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you want more from Laura, you can check her out here.

You can also join her Facebook community for Middle School ELA teachers.

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Sep 26, 202235:02
3.4 Book Trailers: What They Are and Why I Love Them!
Sep 19, 202205:51
3.3 Understanding and Addressing Letter Confusions with Emily Laidlaw

3.3 Understanding and Addressing Letter Confusions with Emily Laidlaw

In this episode, I share an amazing interview with Emily Laidlaw. We're talking about letter confusion - what it is and how to address it at home!

Emily has worked in private and public schools in various capacities, including as program director for students with learning differences and as a reading interventionist. She's tutored in person and online for several years now. She has a passion for providing efficient and effective instruction to help students achieve success. And, Emily strives to help other tutors, teachers, and parents do the same!  

Tune in to this episode for an in-depth explanation of what letter confusion is, what it means for your child, and the best tips for how you can help your child overcome it!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

If you want more from Emily, you can check her out here.

You can also follow her on Facebook, YouTube, TpT, and Instagram.

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Sep 12, 202234:50
3.2 5 Online Tools We Use for Reading and Writing
Sep 05, 202209:54
3.1 How is Reading Being Taught in Your Child's Classroom this School Year? with Jill Kohlenberg

3.1 How is Reading Being Taught in Your Child's Classroom this School Year? with Jill Kohlenberg

It's that time of year - back to school! Let me ask you a question... do you know if your child is learning structured literacy or whole language in their classroom this year?

If you don't know, this episode is for you! In our season 3 premiere, I'm joined by Jill Kohlenberg. Jill is an educator who spent many years teaching Kindergarten and Pre-K followed by teaching 4th-grade and 5th-grade reading. After 13 years, she left teaching to start her own private tutoring business. She has a Master's degree in Reading and an Ed.S in Curriculum. She's also Orton-Gillingham trained and certified. She knows there are lots of different ways to get an education and she's passionate about supporting families no matter where they are on their journey. She also runs an educational training company, Tutor Success Academy, with her business partner, Emily Gibbons.  

Tune in to this episode as we discuss what to expect as our kids go back to school, how to help with the transition, what to look for in your child's reading curriculum, and when to get help!

Books & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Lange Learning Center

Back to School Tips to Support Students with Dyslexia

Season 2 Episode 10: Tips for Successful Parent-Teacher Conferences

Peach and Blue by Sarah Kilborne

The Grey Lady and the Strawberry Snatcher by Molly Bang

If you want more from Jill, check out Tutor Success Academy.

You can also follow her on Facebook.

If you'd like to support this podcast in a small way, you can do so here. Please know that any support you can offer is so very much appreciated!

If you want to follow me on social media I can be found at the following links:

Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest

Or check out my website at Your Reading Tutor for more reading resources and support!

And don't forget to get my FREE Reading Rewards System and get your kids excited about reading today!

Music from this podcast was used with permission from Epidemic Sound.

Aug 29, 202251:05
Season 3 Preview!
Aug 22, 202205:26