Learning to read is critical for children, and it’s no surprise that a multitude of apps and services have sprung up to try to help teach them. In this review, we’ll be looking at one of the platforms that have been around the longest: Reading Eggs.
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What is Reading Eggs?
Reading Eggs is an Australian subscription-based learning platform that aims to help children develop their comprehension skills using engaging and interactive activities that will improve reading fluency and comprehension skills, as well as build vocabulary. This learning platform, created by a team of experienced animators, web developers, and educators, was launched in 2008. Reading Eggs is available in 169 countries and is used by millions of children. Owned by 3P Learning, Reading Eggs is aimed at children aged two to thirteen.
This interactive learning platform is used by a multitude of schools alongside their chosen curriculum and phonics programs and encourages use at home to improve phonological awareness. This platform should, however, be seen just as that: a tool to use alongside a set program and tons of reading practice at home.
How to use Reading Eggs
Reading Eggs is an engaging learning platform comprising five categories aimed at different age groups:
- Reading Eggs Junior (ages two to four)
- Reading Eggs (ages three to eight)
- Fast Phonics (ages five to ten)
- Reading Express (ages eight to thirteen)
- Mathseeds (ages three to nine).
Reading Eggs is not just a learning platform to use if your child is struggling with reading; it can also help your child excel in reading and comprehension, which will soon translate into their writing skills. It is an easy-to-use platform, so parents do not have to assist their children with whichever program or game they choose.
This platform starts with two options: start at level 1 with no experience in phonics or reading, or complete a placement test to start the program on the reading level your child is currently at. If you feel that the placement was not accurate, you can retake the placement test at any point in your child’s learning path.
Once you have found your starting point, the adventure of fun and learning truly begins. The vibrant colors and welcoming sounds immediately draw children in. The user-friendly menu, thoughtfully designed with both images and text, ensures accessibility for both parents and children. The absence of a specific starting point offers freedom and autonomy (so that it does not feel like extra work or homework), enhancing the fun factor and encouraging children to engage more.
Reading Eggs also makes it easy to track progress in all aspects of the learning program, and not just progress on the number of levels or activities that have been completed. This is great for parents to keep track of, but it is also amazing for schools and teachers. Schools use this platform not just to assist with learning in the classroom but also to provide opportunities for award ceremonies and ways to bring home and school together.
What types of activities can I find on Reading activities?
You have a multitude of options right at your fingertips. Whether your child prefers a quick dive into phonics with the Fast Phonics program or wants to embark on a more personalized journey through your profile, the choices are abundant. You can follow a map, take mini-speed tests, or even journal about your learning experiences. Puzzles, games, spelling challenges, and a plethora of storybooks to choose from. All of this promises hours of entertainment and learning.
How much does Reading Eggs cost?
Reading Eggs offers an affordable subscription-based learning platform that includes a generous thirty-day trial, allowing you to explore it thoroughly before making a commitment. Since it operates on a subscription model, you have the flexibility to cancel at any time. Reading Eggs, along with many other competing learning platforms, is US $9.99 per month. This is a small price to pay for a vast amount of fun and learning.
Advantages and disadvantages of Reading Eggs
As with every learning platform, there are varying advantages and disadvantages to consider. Let us begin by addressing the disadvantages.
One drawback is that certain games and activities can promote memorization and guessing, as they demand 100% accuracy to progress to the next level. This approach may not foster a genuine passion for learning and reading, as it can make tasks feel monotonous and discourage children’s active engagement. Additionally, some children might find activities uninteresting, particularly those that involve merely tapping the correct answer or repeating the same sounds and word choices excessively.
The great thing about Reading Eggs is that there are more advantages than disadvantages to using this platform. This program offers more than just learning and entertainment. It employs a reward-based system that cultivates autonomy and motivation. Achievements are recognized with certificates and virtual eggs, which can be exchanged for various items within the learning platform. This personal touch adds depth and engagement to the child’s learning experience.
Honest reviews
I sought honest opinions from children of diverse reading levels to gain a broader perspective, and here are their insights:
- “I don’t use it at home. I prefer reading because I learn the sounds at school.”
- “I love Reading Eggs! I use it every day. I am already on level (lesson) 112!”
- “I like the races, where you can race a car afterward. Fast Phonics is boring because I already know the sounds. But I also really like the books. There are so many that I love.”
Who is Reading Eggs for, and is it worth it?
As a teacher, I have had personal experience having to use Reading Eggs with children to further assist them with their reading skills. Most of my learners have made great progress using Reading Eggs as an additional learning tool. Reading Eggs should not be used in solidarity; regular reading with peers and adults should be taking place, and a great phonics program should be developed or chosen by the school district.
Reading Eggs caters to parents seeking to inspire their children’s reading and comprehension skills through enjoyable and engaging activities. It’s particularly well-suited for children aged 3-12, whether they are looking to enhance their reading abilities or are in the process of learning English as a second language.
This interactive learning platform not only fosters skill development but also ignites a passion for learning. It is a platform where children discover the joy of acquiring knowledge.
