Andy, Dale ...

>...like you stated, getting involved early is the key to your child's chance at success in school and probably in life.

I agree wholeheartedly that the "individual involvement" with kids as they learn to read, with the encouragement of their tiny little accomplishments, goes a *long* way to building their confidence and self-esteem. That's why involvement of parents in teaching their kids to read is so important, and also taking time throughout their school years to read to them and listen to them read.

My two children still at home (ages 9 & 17) both enjoyed tremendously a book that we read together about the life of Dr. George Washington Carver of Tuskegee, Alabama, who my father knew personally. We took turns reading a portion of a chapter each evening for several weeks -- and they still talk about that experience. (And I've just reminded myself that it's time to do that again) :-)

Dale, as you work with kids who are learning to read, I'm sure you have found yourself giving little encouragements to them. The long-term effects of those seemingly insignificant comments won't be fully seen for years, but they are there in those kids' foundations.