Empowering Parents to Raise Readers

Raise Them With Wisdom

Empowering Parents to Raise Readers with Rebecca McAllister from The Active Reader

In this inspiring episode, host Katie Begley speaks with educator and Active Reader founder Rebecca McAllister about empowering parents to confidently support their children’s reading journey. Rebecca shares personal stories, expert strategies, and parent-friendly tools based on the Orton-Gillingham approach to literacy. Whether you're a parent, educator, or caregiver, you’ll walk away with actionable steps to nurture a lifelong love of reading in your children—without needing a teaching degree.

Notable Quotes:

“All parents should feel empowered when it comes to their children’s education and reading.”

“If your gut says something isn’t right, follow that. You’re the expert on your child.”

Timestamps:

[00:01:30] Rebecca's journey from classroom teacher to literacy entrepreneur

[00:03:15] The #1 question parents ask: “Where and when do I start teaching reading?”

[00:04:45] Why early language development starts with baby talk

[00:07:30] What to do if you “missed the early years”

[00:09:00] The red flags Rebecca spotted in her own son—and why it mattered

[00:11:45] How flashcards, play, and decoding created a strong reading foundation

[00:15:00] Decodable books vs. sight words explained

[00:18:30] The nightly reading routine that changed everything

[00:21:30] Reading resistance? Here’s what to do

[00:24:00] Why memorization doesn’t equal true reading

[00:26:00] When to seek extra support like tutoring or speech therapy

[00:29:45] Advocating for your child in the school system

[00:33:15] Having supportive, non-confrontational conversations with teachers

[00:36:30] What to look for in your child’s take-home work

[00:38:00] The power of structured literacy—and where to begin

Resources Mentioned:

Free Letter A worksheet

https://theactivereader.com/free-worksheets

Early Childhood Reading Curriculum

https://theactivereader.com/active-reader-curriculum

Early Reader Activity Cards (The Early Reader Pack)

https://theactivereader.com/the-early-reader-pack

Follow Rebecca Online:

• Instagram: @the_active_reader

• YouTube: The Active Reader

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theactivereader1646

Podcast Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health provider or mental health professional with any questions you may have regarding your well-being or your child’s. The views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not reflect those of any affiliated organizations. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or the community. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use the information provided as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.