What do you remember about learning to read? 

Was it curling up with a favorite story, sounding out words for the first time, or maybe listening to someone read aloud with expression and care?  

Maybe reading came easily or maybe it took time to feel confident. How did the adults in your life support you? What made reading feel joyful or challenging? 

These are all valuable questions to revisit as we think about how to support children in developing their own relationship with reading. Rather than focusing on a set of skills to be memorized ,in Montessori education, we view learning to read as a natural process that unfolds through curiosity, connection, and meaningful experiences with language.

How Reading is introduced in Montessori

In Montessori environments, children are introduced to writing before reading. This may sound surprising at first, but it allows learners to practice language skills in a way that feels natural and low-pressure. When a child builds a word with the Moveable Alphabet, they are expressing their understanding of how sounds come together long before they’re expected to read printed words on a page. 

From there, learners progress to Phonetic Object Boxes, matching written words with familiar items, and eventually to Reading Cards that introduce new vocabulary and concepts. At every stage, children gain a deeper understanding of language. This process is not simply memorizing letters or sight words; children are discovering how language works. 

Choosing Appropriate Books

The books we offer play an important role in supporting a child’s literacy development. 

For Early Education learners (ages 3-5), look for books that reflect real life: stories about people or animals doing natural, everyday things. Avoid books that feature animals or people engaging in magical happenings (talking animals, flying people etc); realistic stories help children make meaningful connections to their own world. Choose topics that align with their interests such as gardening, cooking, caring for animals, or exploring nature. 

For Elementary learners (ages 6-9), interests often expand into imagination and curiosity about the wider world. This is the perfect time to introduce fantasy stories, chapter books, and nonfiction books related to topics your learner is passionate about such as oceans, outer space, history, or inventions. 

Strategies to Support Early Literacy at Home

There are many simple, joyful ways to nurture a love of reading outside of school: 

Read Aloud: Reading aloud is one of the most powerful ways to support literacy. Hearing language builds vocabulary, comprehension, and a sense of rhythm in language. 

Create Reading Routines: Establish a daily reading time, maybe before bed or after dinner.  Consistency helps children see reading as a natural and enjoyable part of life. 

Encourage Storytelling: Invite your child to tell stories about their day, their favorite animals, or an imaginary adventure. Storytelling builds sequencing, vocabulary, and creativity, all of which are essential skills for reading and writing. 

Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of “did you like the book?” try questions like, “What part surprised you the most?” or “How do you think the character felt?” This kind of conversation helps deepen comprehension and critical thinking. 

Supporting literacy at home doesn’t require a big plan, just small, consistent moments of connection through stories, words, and curiosity.  

Current CM Families are invited to attend the upcoming Family Engagement Series Panel: Why Reading is So Important. Find more information about the event and RSVP on ParentSquare.

Everyone is welcome to download any of the resource below that can help support you and your family in developing reading habits that fit your family’s rhythm and your child’s reading journey.

Downloads:

How to Read To & With Your Child (primary & elementary)