Teaching phonics is NOT rocket science, nor should it be when we know that the "end user" of beginning reading instruction is only five years old and eating his shoe. Recent research on the science of reading brings us closer to understanding how our brain learns to read, but not how our brain actually learns. Our brain is wired to make connections, and it's easier to learn and store information when there's an emotional hook to hang it on. The affective, or "feeling” based neural networks develop long before the higher-level, executive processing centers are formed. By aligning abstract phonics concepts with familiar feelings and behaviors kids know and understand (i.e. having a crush and getting embarrassed, playing too rough and getting hurt, not getting along, feeling left out, acting sneaky, etc.) we can leverage social-emotional intelligence to make sounds more predictable—empowering ALL students to become fearless codebreakers and lifelong learners!

Meet the Author
Wednesday, February 19 from 11:45am - 12:15pm Central
Katie Garner will be greeting in-person attendees at the "Meet the Author" counter on Level 4.