Th Matthew Effect

Have you ever heard of The Matthew Effect?

It describes how early advantages multiply over time — and the same is true in reading!

📚 Strong readers keep reading, building vocabulary and comprehension that help them grow as a reader. 

😕 Struggling readers often read less, which widens the gap year after year.

Reading impacts everything — from math story problems to street signs to following directions. That’s why building a strong foundation early on is essential for lifelong success.

The good news? 

We know what works!

✅ Explicit, systematic phonics instruction — letter by letter, sound by sound, word by word — gives every child the tools to read accurately and confidently.

❌ No more guessing or memorizing.

(A story for another day - but if you want to learn more, click here). 

Without that foundation…reading can feel like building on quicksand. 

With it…kids thrive!

At Next Step, I offer joyful, research-backed instruction designed to:

✨ Strengthen reading skills

✨ Build confidence

✨ Foster a love of learning