The Building Blocks of Reading: What Every Parent Should Know

Presents:

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 @ 8 PM online

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Reading is one of the most essential skills a child will ever learn—and parents play a powerful role in that journey. In this session, we’ll explore the foundational elements that support strong reading development, including phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension. Parents will gain practical strategies to support reading at home and learn how to recognize early signs of reading difficulties.

We’ll also discuss Ontario’s new mandatory early reading screener, now required for all students in Year 2 of Kindergarten through Grade 2 in publicly funded schools. This universal screening initiative, introduced in 2023, helps identify students who may need additional support in developing key word reading skills. Parents will learn what the screener measures, how results are shared, and how to use this information to advocate for their child’s reading success.

Whether your child is just beginning to read or already on their way, this presentation will equip you with the knowledge and tools to help them thrive.

About the Presenter: 

Danielle Hageman is a Literacy Coach and a parent to 10-year old twins and a singleton 6 year old. As a Literacy Coach with the Peel District School Board she brings a wealth of experience and passion for reading instruction. Danielle is Orton-Gilligham trained, equipping her with specialized skills to support diverse learners in developing strong literacy foundations. She is a dedicated advocate for parents, working to bridge the gap between home and school by empowering families with the tools and knowledge to support their children's learning journeys.