Reading Software

Go Hi-Tech with Reading Software

Reading software may be helpful to your child. Children are often captivated by computer programs and interactive teaching devices that incorporate animation, sound, and humor.

Many classroom teachers are already using reading software programs. Accelerated Reader and Reading Counts are two popular examples. These reading management programs help students select books appropriate for their reading level to read on their own. When they finish reading, they take a computerized test to see how well they understood the material.

Merit Software makes programs for students from primary groups through high school. Merit's reading software includes Early Reading Booster for beginning readers, which has a low-cost home version. Other reading software that covers a variety of reading skills includes:

1. Academy of Reading by Autoskill International, Inc.
2. Focus Reading and Language Program by PLATO Learning Inc.
3. Odyssey Reading by Compass Learning Inc.
4. Reader Rabbit by Riverdeep Interactive Learning

You might also want to check out Rocket Reader, a program that helps students improve reading speed. Go the website for a streaming video demo or to sign up for a free trial.

Some programs are available for use online, and do not require you to buy separate software or worry about compatibility with your computer system. Those are probably good to sample until you find the reading software you like best. Many educational websites have games that teach language arts online.

Each website should provide an online user's manual - or at least system requirements - so you can check to see if the program will run on your home computer. If you aren't certain, see if the company will supply a demo copy of reading software to try. You may also find a phone number or email contact on the site, and you can talk to an expert on whether the software will work on your system.

Before you purchase any software, you may also want to read reviews by parents and educators. You can find reviews at Kaboose and Discovery. Many parenting magazines also offer reviews of new software as well. Remember to try out the software yourself first so that you can show your child how to use it. Make sure that programs supply correct answers and give positive feedback.