Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons is a scripted phonics program using Direct Instruction methodology that guides parents through teaching reading to children ages 4-6 in approximately 20 minutes per day over 100 sequential lessons.
What is Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons?
Published by Simon & Schuster and written by Siegfried Engelmann, Phyllis Haddox, and Elaine Bruner, this book has sold over one million copies since its 1986 release. The program is based on DISTAR (Direct Instruction System for Teaching and Remediation), a research-backed phonics approach developed in the 1960s. Every lesson includes a complete script in red text—parents simply read the words aloud and follow the instructions. No prior teaching experience or extensive preparation is required. Children completing all 100 lessons typically read at a solid second-grade level.
Key Takeaways
- Scripted lessons require no preparation—open the book and teach
- Uses DISTAR orthography with modified letter symbols that transition to standard print
- Takes approximately 15-30 minutes daily over 7-8 months to complete
- Best for children ages 4-6; not recommended for struggling readers
- Available for under $20 at most retailers—highly affordable entry point
The DISTAR Method Explained
DISTAR explicitly teaches letter-sound connections through a specific sequence. The program uses modified orthography—letters are written with small marks indicating their sounds—making initial reading easier by eliminating English's confusing spelling patterns. As lessons progress, these modified symbols gradually transition to standard print. The approach aligns with modern "Science of Reading" principles emphasizing systematic phonics instruction. Over 50 formal research studies document the effectiveness of Direct Instruction methods, making this one of the most evidence-backed approaches available.
What a Typical Lesson Looks Like
Each lesson follows the same structure: sounds practice, word reading, and a short story. Parents read the red-printed script exactly as written—the wording has been carefully designed and shouldn't be modified. Children respond to prompts, sound out words, and read progressively longer texts. Sessions run 15-30 minutes depending on the child's pace. The program recommends 4-5 lessons per week, meaning completion takes roughly 7-8 months. There's no supplementary preparation; everything needed is in the book.
Strengths and Limitations
Is It Right for Your Child?
This program works best for children around ages 4-5 who can follow directions, speak in sentences, and sustain attention for 15-20 minutes. Prior alphabet knowledge isn't required—the program teaches sounds, not letter names. It's particularly well-suited for parents who appreciate structure and want clear guidance without curriculum decisions. However, if your child is already a struggling reader or has learning differences requiring specialized intervention, this program isn't designed for remediation. Active learners who need movement and variety may find the repetitive format challenging.
The Bottom Line
For under $20 and 20 minutes a day, Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons delivers what it promises: a straightforward path to reading fluency for typical preschool and kindergarten-age children. The completely scripted format removes guesswork for parents while the research-backed methodology ensures effectiveness. Just understand its limitations—this is a structured phonics program, not a flexible curriculum adaptable to every learning style. For the right child and family, it remains one of the most efficient, affordable ways to teach reading at home.
