This is a really great overview of all these programs. Thank you for putting in the work and investment, Sarah! One thing to note is that All About Reading does actually do a great job of teaching literary devices, but it doesn't start introducing those until level 2 or 3. Puns, metaphors, similes, alliteration, onomatopoeias, hyperboles, personification, satire... These are the ones that I know we covered for sure. I do wish that AAR would have more comprehensive spelling, intentional copywork, and grammar tied in but we love all that they do include. The pacing works really well for us, so I just supplement as needed. We hate All About Spelling 🤣 I find that CKLA kindergarten activity pages supplement AAR1 really nicely, at least for my daughter. And they're free! Great for encoding supplementation.
I'm glad you mentioned even those 5% natural born readers need this! My daughter is in that 5% but she has still gained so much from Pinwheels. I'll be sharing this video a lot ❤️
Yes! I think many folks think that if their child teaches themselves or learns on their own, then their job is done. Sometimes that's true - like my daughter taught herself to ride a bike, awesome. But if she figures out how to drive a car on her own, you better believe I will be going over all the basics and more with her! Same with reading! There are so many things that go into being a fluent reader and writer - it's more than just the surface level.
This is such a great video, Sarah! I just posted it to my co-op's page. Thanks for all of the hard work you've put into this! We tried LoE and didn't love it. Went to AAR and that's what we are using now with success. But I also own Pinwheels level 1 (which we are past now) and have a bit of FOMO about not using it. But AAR is working! Wish this video were around 5 years ago when I needed it! It will help so many people.
I just want to point out that all about reading has a companion spelling program. The spelling piece follows the lessons taught in all about reading levels and involves tokens that the child corresponds to each sound in the words they are spelling. So the orthographic mapping IS a huge part of aar, but only if you include the spelling part of it as well.
Yes, I agree. I wish they had more paper-based mapping and that their AAS program was advertised as going alongside AAR. They still recommend starting AAS separate from AAR.
Thank you for the comparison. It’s very helpful. A you explain why you would not recommend TGAB? Would you recommend it for later years or as an add on, especially for those budget minded? I’m just beginning to look into PK and K curriculum.
*My experience, everyone is different.* I was so excited about Pinwheels, but it totally didn’t work for us. So much stuff to prep. I really didn’t like how it was set up either. Also, would of had to modify a lot w how slowly it moves. I also realized I prefer a physical copy vs digital download. Absolutely love All About Reading! Definitely the best reading curriculum IMO.
Pinwheels isn't for everyone. Not sure if you saw the whole video, I definitely go into all the different elements of why each program may or may not be a best fit for everyone. AAR is a great program, but this isn't a situation where there is a "best reading curriculum." I've worked with a lot of families with dyslexic children who found AAR to be too fast. Glad you found a program that works for you!
Thanks for this! These are 3 I’ve been looking at. I’ve also been looking at The Good and the Beautiful. I noticed your little blip saying NOT that one. Can you tell me why you think that, please?
Hello! I’m on the fence about taking the plunge with PW. We are more than half way through AAR1, no issues my 5.5yr is learning to read well. We hit the occasional challenges, but I don’t think that’s learning related as more just her maybe not wanting to sit and homeschool. I am wondering if we should finish up level 1 and switch to PW3/4 for the coming 1st grade year. If not my plan is to use AAR2, AAS1, writing with ease (or the brave writer) and 1st language lessons. I wanted to make sure we added writing/literature/spellin/grammer since AAR doesn’t include that. Do you feel that’s all over the place? lol! I don’t mind having it all pieced together especially since AAR seems to be a good fit. I’m worried of getting FOMO over pinwheels!
Oh gosh, the homeschool FOMO is so real. If AAR is working for you, keep with it! You can always add RiL strategies to other programs. You could check out the LA Binder class and easily build an LA binder with AAR/AAS content. In terms of literature for that age - just reading aloud is great! AAR will start to add in some comprehension-type work, and you can begin to think about story elements etc. You could add in BW Dart as read alouds and tie in some RiL style Intentional Copywork for that. In terms of writing, I don't have experience with WWE, so I can't speak to that program. I like EIW for open-and-go writing/grammar and IEW for 2nd grade and up.
This is amazing! Thank you so much for putting the effort into this comparison. When it comes to Pinwheels, to have our LA totally complete, what Literature study curriculum would you recommend (as you said that was the only element missing, except perhaps cursive writing)?
Couple options: 1) You can DIY literature by looking at booklists from literature based curricula - for K-2, the focus is really on story elements (character, setting, problem, solution), inferencing, and making connections to the text. 2) If you are using a program like Build Your Library or Torchlight, Blossom & Root, Oak Meadow, Bookshark, etc. - they include literature suggestions 3) a program like Lightening Literature or Blackbird & Company that offer literature curriculum (really for 1st grade + 4) Literature singles like those from Novel Ties or Brave Writer
Thank you for this video, Sarah! I’ve been considering Pinwheels and your very thorough comparison was very informative. Just a suggestion… it might help people find this much needed video better if you include the three curriculum you’re comparing as keywords in the title. I came across your video in my feed but when I put in pinwheels in the search bar, your video doesn’t show up. Keep up the good work! ❤
Im struggling so much with choosing a Kindergarten program. My 4 year old knows the basic consonant sounds, several special blends such as sh, th and ck. She also knows the silent E and 2 vowel rules, when they work out easily. She sounds out still and gets overwhelmed with sentences but enjoys reading lists. I feel like we are past level 1 on most programs but I don't know any of the other rules to teach her so I need something. She will be a young Kindergartener and I want something fun. She has completed Get Ready for the code and really doesn't need any more " starts with ends with" type of practice. She loves games and hands on. What do you recommend?
Which program would you recommend for a child who has difficulty with speech articulation and is receiving speech therapy? My two older kids had no problem at all learning to read but my youngest who is only 3.5 right now has some speech issues and I’m just thinking ahead to what program might be good for her, or ways I can help her learn her letter sounds. I used Jessie Wise’s Ordinary Parents’ Guide to Teaching Reading with the older two but I’m not sure if I should use that again for my little girl with the speech issues. Thank you for taking the time to make such an incredibly informative video!!! With your background you are probably the perfect person to provide these in depth reading curriculum reviews! ❤
I would start with phonemic awareness (in her situation, I would recommend Heggerty). Then I would recommend Pinwheels because it would give you ample time to practice each letter/sound before adding on another one.
This is so helpful! We are using AAR/AAS and it is working but I am so drawn to Rooted in Language. I wish I had found it sooner! Maybe for my younger two! Do you have any experience with their Wand program?
Hey! So The Wand is a good option if you have a child who knows the vowel teams, r-controlled vowels, etc. but is not reading fluently or if reading still feels really laborious. If you have a child who has completed a foundational reading program and is reading early chapter books, then you probably won't get much out of it.
I have a 6 year old daughter who is on the lo g road to reading. I've been working with her for two years and we are just getting to reading some sight words and knowing all the basic alphabet sounds. She is definitely ADHD and requires writing the words out to be able to sound them out. I was thinking about trying logic of english, but am worried that it would.be way to much for her to try and learn all the sounds of a letter at once. Do you think pinwheels would be a better choice. I also just got AAR level 1 but have not started it yet.
Hi, if you have AAR 1, then I would say go ahead and try that. PW is a solid option if you don't want to add in over resources for spelling, grammar, word study etc. down the word. Also, check out my post here on choosing a reading program: www.homespunchildhood.com/blog/how-to-choose-a-reading-curriculum
One more question if I may. I already have LoE Foundations A and B. I’m probably going to finish the B level with my older child but wonder what other curricula do I need to add to LoE please? I am a bit overwhelmed by so many components of LA. Would adding say Lightning Literature be enough, covering grammar and literature study? Thanks so much!
It's super overwhelming, I totally get it. Yes, adding Lightning Lit would be enough! By level C, you will also want writing. However, if you plan to continue with LoE and do essentials, you could just make sure to include the foundations writing components.
For AAR and LoE, I typically recommend starting relatively slow - one phonogram per week. Then, if your child is picking up the material well, you can increase to 2 phonograms a week. You can apply the same general ideas from the UFLI guide to AAR and LoE. PW has everything mapped out for you!
Hey, Sarah! I need your opinion! I'm currently using Dash Into Learning as my main curriculum to teach my 4-soom-to-be-5 years old daughter, but I have found it to be lacking in differentiating the sounds of blending sounds, such as oo and th. I don't necessarily want to buy another curriculum if I don't need to. Do you think All About Reading Teacher's manual is good enough to instruct me on dipthongs, etc. or will I need the student book as well? Or is there another book out there that can instruct me? Thank you!
Hey! Welcome! So my daughter loves the Dash into Learning books, but they aren't really a reading program. You'll definitely want to consider a program like AAR. You can get by without the activity book, but I do recommend their readers and some form of moveable alphabet. I have a course designed for families like yours - new to teaching reading - that walks through all the things to look for in a reading program with lots of activities and video examples. You can learn more about it here: www.homespunchildhood.com/foundational-reading-course
Nope. LoE Essentials is designed for students who have completed a foundational reading program (like foundations). It's geared at students 2nd grade and up. Pinwheels and LoE Foundations are both foundational reading programs.
How far did you get in Foundations with your son? I ask because there are some things you said were missing from LOE that it does have in later levels. Also, it seems a little unbalanced to have reviewed only Foundations A when really Foundations A *and* B would have been roughly equivalent to the level of Pinwheels you reviewed. More of those components show up in Foundations B.
Hi, I went through level C with my son and own A--D and essentials 1. Please note, this review only looked at the first level of all three programs. Pinwheels 1/2 is year 1 of PW, per their website. LoE A is year 1 of LoE.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I group PW 1/2 together as one year because you need to do both programs to introduce all 26 letters. LoE A covers that same content in level A alone. LoE A is also 40 units. While many people move through the lessons rather quickly, I typically recommend 1 week per phonogram - which also places LoE A at about one academic year. Obviously, children learn at all different paces. However, I used my professional background and years in the classroom in deciding which levels to include in this video.
Sarah, which of these programs would you suggest for my already reading 7 almost 8 year old? We are using First Language Lessons, Evan Moore grammar vocab workbook and we do read alouds with light copywork & dictation. She's also using Handwriting without Tears. I'm really looking for phonics which is the only thing I feel we're missing. Thanks for any help!
I think any of these programs could be a good fit. I have a breakdown of "how to choose a reading program" on my blog that might be helpful: www.homespunchildhood.com/blog/how-to-choose-a-reading-curriculum
Thank Sarah for all these reviews. I have a struggling speller. We are doing AAR 3level. Did AAS 1 and stopped Aas 2. My 8 yr old daughter. Needs more practice with her fluency as well. I guess since im dwep into the aar program i should just finish program. Do you have any suggesrions for more support for spelling? I a as thinking of words their way, amy tjought on them? Im now looking for something more comprehensive that ties all components for my 6 yr old he can blend 2 lwtters and now 3 letters. He is starting in the very beginning of bobs books.... Not sure i want to do AAR with him. Pinwheels seems like i can cater to him if he is faster at learning but also if he is slower i can adjust.. is this the case do you think? Also, how and or when do you incorporate iew- primary language with this tupe of program. Thank you!!!
For spelling - I would add in more practice/repetition - focusing on one spelling pattern per week. I have a highlight on Instagram that goes into more detail: ruclips.net/video/46uVaTGDxmU/видео.html
As for PW, I think it is a more comprehensive program and helps you see how to blend the different components together. They also have a lot of support in their Rooted Community on Facebook.
If you are using PW, you dont need to add anything else in. If you are using AAR and want to add in IEW Primary Arts of Language:Writing, I would say add in Part 2 of that curriculum. I'm about to share more reviews on IEW soon, so if you are thinking about that, check out this blog post: www.homespunchildhood.com/blog/iew-a-guide
Thank you again for taking the time to answer. Im Getting a little anxious overwhelmed .. I just ordered pw1 for 6yr old son and wand 1 for my daughter. I will continue on aar until I've read up and have everything in place. Hoping this curriculm can help this momma with less of the LA guess work and piecing things together from other curriculum.
We love our LOE curriculum! It works great for us - both for reading and spelling. Currently starting book C!
This is a really great overview of all these programs. Thank you for putting in the work and investment, Sarah!
One thing to note is that All About Reading does actually do a great job of teaching literary devices, but it doesn't start introducing those until level 2 or 3. Puns, metaphors, similes, alliteration, onomatopoeias, hyperboles, personification, satire... These are the ones that I know we covered for sure. I do wish that AAR would have more comprehensive spelling, intentional copywork, and grammar tied in but we love all that they do include. The pacing works really well for us, so I just supplement as needed.
We hate All About Spelling 🤣
I find that CKLA kindergarten activity pages supplement AAR1 really nicely, at least for my daughter. And they're free! Great for encoding supplementation.
That's good to know! Thank you for sharing!
I'm glad you mentioned even those 5% natural born readers need this! My daughter is in that 5% but she has still gained so much from Pinwheels. I'll be sharing this video a lot ❤️
Yes! I think many folks think that if their child teaches themselves or learns on their own, then their job is done. Sometimes that's true - like my daughter taught herself to ride a bike, awesome. But if she figures out how to drive a car on her own, you better believe I will be going over all the basics and more with her! Same with reading! There are so many things that go into being a fluent reader and writer - it's more than just the surface level.
This is such a great video, Sarah! I just posted it to my co-op's page. Thanks for all of the hard work you've put into this! We tried LoE and didn't love it. Went to AAR and that's what we are using now with success. But I also own Pinwheels level 1 (which we are past now) and have a bit of FOMO about not using it. But AAR is working! Wish this video were around 5 years ago when I needed it! It will help so many people.
Hello, may I ask why you didn’t enjoyed LOE?
I just want to point out that all about reading has a companion spelling program. The spelling piece follows the lessons taught in all about reading levels and involves tokens that the child corresponds to each sound in the words they are spelling. So the orthographic mapping IS a huge part of aar, but only if you include the spelling part of it as well.
Yes, I agree. I wish they had more paper-based mapping and that their AAS program was advertised as going alongside AAR. They still recommend starting AAS separate from AAR.
Thank you for the comparison. It’s very helpful. A you explain why you would not recommend TGAB? Would you recommend it for later years or as an add on, especially for those budget minded?
I’m just beginning to look into PK and K curriculum.
*My experience, everyone is different.* I was so excited about Pinwheels, but it totally didn’t work for us. So much stuff to prep. I really didn’t like how it was set up either. Also, would of had to modify a lot w how slowly it moves. I also realized I prefer a physical copy vs digital download.
Absolutely love All About Reading! Definitely the best reading curriculum IMO.
Pinwheels isn't for everyone. Not sure if you saw the whole video, I definitely go into all the different elements of why each program may or may not be a best fit for everyone. AAR is a great program, but this isn't a situation where there is a "best reading curriculum." I've worked with a lot of families with dyslexic children who found AAR to be too fast. Glad you found a program that works for you!
Thanks for this! These are 3 I’ve been looking at. I’ve also been looking at The Good and the Beautiful. I noticed your little blip saying NOT that one. Can you tell me why you think that, please?
Hello! I’m on the fence about taking the plunge with PW. We are more than half way through AAR1, no issues my 5.5yr is learning to read well. We hit the occasional challenges, but I don’t think that’s learning related as more just her maybe not wanting to sit and homeschool.
I am wondering if we should finish up level 1 and switch to PW3/4 for the coming 1st grade year. If not my plan is to use AAR2, AAS1, writing with ease (or the brave writer) and 1st language lessons. I wanted to make sure we added writing/literature/spellin/grammer since AAR doesn’t include that. Do you feel that’s all over the place? lol! I don’t mind having it all pieced together especially since AAR seems to be a good fit. I’m worried of getting FOMO over pinwheels!
Oh gosh, the homeschool FOMO is so real. If AAR is working for you, keep with it! You can always add RiL strategies to other programs. You could check out the LA Binder class and easily build an LA binder with AAR/AAS content.
In terms of literature for that age - just reading aloud is great! AAR will start to add in some comprehension-type work, and you can begin to think about story elements etc. You could add in BW Dart as read alouds and tie in some RiL style Intentional Copywork for that.
In terms of writing, I don't have experience with WWE, so I can't speak to that program. I like EIW for open-and-go writing/grammar and IEW for 2nd grade and up.
This is amazing! Thank you so much for putting the effort into this comparison. When it comes to Pinwheels, to have our LA totally complete, what Literature study curriculum would you recommend (as you said that was the only element missing, except perhaps cursive writing)?
Couple options:
1) You can DIY literature by looking at booklists from literature based curricula - for K-2, the focus is really on story elements (character, setting, problem, solution), inferencing, and making connections to the text.
2) If you are using a program like Build Your Library or Torchlight, Blossom & Root, Oak Meadow, Bookshark, etc. - they include literature suggestions
3) a program like Lightening Literature or Blackbird & Company that offer literature curriculum (really for 1st grade +
4) Literature singles like those from Novel Ties or Brave Writer
Thank you for this video, Sarah! I’ve been considering Pinwheels and your very thorough comparison was very informative. Just a suggestion… it might help people find this much needed video better if you include the three curriculum you’re comparing as keywords in the title. I came across your video in my feed but when I put in pinwheels in the search bar, your video doesn’t show up. Keep up the good work! ❤
oh, thanks!
Im struggling so much with choosing a Kindergarten program. My 4 year old knows the basic consonant sounds, several special blends such as sh, th and ck. She also knows the silent E and 2 vowel rules, when they work out easily. She sounds out still and gets overwhelmed with sentences but enjoys reading lists. I feel like we are past level 1 on most programs but I don't know any of the other rules to teach her so I need something. She will be a young Kindergartener and I want something fun. She has completed Get Ready for the code and really doesn't need any more " starts with ends with" type of practice. She loves games and hands on. What do you recommend?
Which program would you recommend for a child who has difficulty with speech articulation and is receiving speech therapy? My two older kids had no problem at all learning to read but my youngest who is only 3.5 right now has some speech issues and I’m just thinking ahead to what program might be good for her, or ways I can help her learn her letter sounds. I used Jessie Wise’s Ordinary Parents’ Guide to Teaching Reading with the older two but I’m not sure if I should use that again for my little girl with the speech issues. Thank you for taking the time to make such an incredibly informative video!!! With your background you are probably the perfect person to provide these in depth reading curriculum reviews! ❤
I would start with phonemic awareness (in her situation, I would recommend Heggerty). Then I would recommend Pinwheels because it would give you ample time to practice each letter/sound before adding on another one.
@@homespun.childhood thank you!
This is so helpful! We are using AAR/AAS and it is working but I am so drawn to Rooted in Language. I wish I had found it sooner! Maybe for my younger two! Do you have any experience with their Wand program?
Hey! So The Wand is a good option if you have a child who knows the vowel teams, r-controlled vowels, etc. but is not reading fluently or if reading still feels really laborious. If you have a child who has completed a foundational reading program and is reading early chapter books, then you probably won't get much out of it.
I have a 6 year old daughter who is on the lo g road to reading. I've been working with her for two years and we are just getting to reading some sight words and knowing all the basic alphabet sounds. She is definitely ADHD and requires writing the words out to be able to sound them out. I was thinking about trying logic of english, but am worried that it would.be way to much for her to try and learn all the sounds of a letter at once. Do you think pinwheels would be a better choice. I also just got AAR level 1 but have not started it yet.
Hi, if you have AAR 1, then I would say go ahead and try that. PW is a solid option if you don't want to add in over resources for spelling, grammar, word study etc. down the word.
Also, check out my post here on choosing a reading program: www.homespunchildhood.com/blog/how-to-choose-a-reading-curriculum
One more question if I may. I already have LoE Foundations A and B. I’m probably going to finish the B level with my older child but wonder what other curricula do I need to add to LoE please? I am a bit overwhelmed by so many components of LA. Would adding say Lightning Literature be enough, covering grammar and literature study? Thanks so much!
It's super overwhelming, I totally get it. Yes, adding Lightning Lit would be enough! By level C, you will also want writing. However, if you plan to continue with LoE and do essentials, you could just make sure to include the foundations writing components.
This is great! Do you have a post about how you divide a lesson into one week like the UFLI?
For AAR and LoE, I typically recommend starting relatively slow - one phonogram per week. Then, if your child is picking up the material well, you can increase to 2 phonograms a week. You can apply the same general ideas from the UFLI guide to AAR and LoE.
PW has everything mapped out for you!
Hey, Sarah! I need your opinion! I'm currently using Dash Into Learning as my main curriculum to teach my 4-soom-to-be-5 years old daughter, but I have found it to be lacking in differentiating the sounds of blending sounds, such as oo and th. I don't necessarily want to buy another curriculum if I don't need to. Do you think All About Reading Teacher's manual is good enough to instruct me on dipthongs, etc. or will I need the student book as well? Or is there another book out there that can instruct me? Thank you!
Hey! Welcome! So my daughter loves the Dash into Learning books, but they aren't really a reading program. You'll definitely want to consider a program like AAR. You can get by without the activity book, but I do recommend their readers and some form of moveable alphabet. I have a course designed for families like yours - new to teaching reading - that walks through all the things to look for in a reading program with lots of activities and video examples. You can learn more about it here: www.homespunchildhood.com/foundational-reading-course
Do you think Logic of English Essentials would have been a better comparison to Pinwheels, instead of Foundations?
Nope. LoE Essentials is designed for students who have completed a foundational reading program (like foundations). It's geared at students 2nd grade and up. Pinwheels and LoE Foundations are both foundational reading programs.
How far did you get in Foundations with your son? I ask because there are some things you said were missing from LOE that it does have in later levels. Also, it seems a little unbalanced to have reviewed only Foundations A when really Foundations A *and* B would have been roughly equivalent to the level of Pinwheels you reviewed. More of those components show up in Foundations B.
Hi, I went through level C with my son and own A--D and essentials 1. Please note, this review only looked at the first level of all three programs. Pinwheels 1/2 is year 1 of PW, per their website. LoE A is year 1 of LoE.
Agree. Year 1 LOE is A and B
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
I group PW 1/2 together as one year because you need to do both programs to introduce all 26 letters. LoE A covers that same content in level A alone. LoE A is also 40 units. While many people move through the lessons rather quickly, I typically recommend 1 week per phonogram - which also places LoE A at about one academic year. Obviously, children learn at all different paces. However, I used my professional background and years in the classroom in deciding which levels to include in this video.
Sarah, which of these programs would you suggest for my already reading 7 almost 8 year old? We are using First Language Lessons, Evan Moore grammar vocab workbook and we do read alouds with light copywork & dictation. She's also using Handwriting without Tears. I'm really looking for phonics which is the only thing I feel we're missing. Thanks for any help!
I think any of these programs could be a good fit. I have a breakdown of "how to choose a reading program" on my blog that might be helpful: www.homespunchildhood.com/blog/how-to-choose-a-reading-curriculum
What would be your recommendation for adding in spelling/writing with AAR?
Thank Sarah for all these reviews. I have a struggling speller. We are doing AAR 3level. Did AAS 1 and stopped Aas 2. My 8 yr old daughter. Needs more practice with her fluency as well.
I guess since im dwep into the aar program i should just finish program. Do you have any suggesrions for more support for spelling? I a as thinking of words their way, amy tjought on them?
Im now looking for something more comprehensive that ties all components for my 6 yr old he can blend 2 lwtters and now 3 letters. He is starting in the very beginning of bobs books....
Not sure i want to do AAR with him. Pinwheels seems like i can cater to him if he is faster at learning but also if he is slower i can adjust.. is this the case do you think?
Also, how and or when do you incorporate iew- primary language with this tupe of program. Thank you!!!
For spelling - I would add in more practice/repetition - focusing on one spelling pattern per week. I have a highlight on Instagram that goes into more detail: ruclips.net/video/46uVaTGDxmU/видео.html
As for PW, I think it is a more comprehensive program and helps you see how to blend the different components together. They also have a lot of support in their Rooted Community on Facebook.
If you are using PW, you dont need to add anything else in.
If you are using AAR and want to add in IEW Primary Arts of Language:Writing, I would say add in Part 2 of that curriculum. I'm about to share more reviews on IEW soon, so if you are thinking about that, check out this blog post: www.homespunchildhood.com/blog/iew-a-guide
Thank you again for taking the time to answer. Im Getting a little anxious overwhelmed .. I just ordered pw1 for 6yr old son and wand 1 for my daughter. I will continue on aar until I've read up and have everything in place. Hoping this curriculm can help this momma with less of the LA guess work and piecing things together from other curriculum.
Do you think wands 1 would be good or should I finish off Aar 3? We are on lesson 23, not quite half way yet?