With so many options, how do you pick a reading programme that actually works? A simple checklist for South African parents.

There is no shortage of apps, books and courses promising to teach your child to read. A few simple questions help you tell the genuinely effective ones from the rest.
The most effective programmes teach sounds in a planned order and help children blend them into words — not guess from pictures. This is the approach research and the CAPS curriculum both support.
For South African children, a CAPS-aligned programme means home practice matches what schools teach, so your child stays in step whether they are in school or homeschooled.
The best programme is the one your child will use. Look for short, interactive lessons, audio support, and — for our many multilingual families — options in more than one language, such as English and Afrikaans.
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Our CAPS-aligned programme turns these ideas into fun, interactive lessons. Try the first two lessons of every grade for free.
Help your child become a confident reader. Explore the CAPS-aligned Saving Grace Learn to Read programme — the first two lessons of every grade are free, no card needed.