The Need to Read Stevenson Reading Program

08/20/2026

As Reading Instructors, we’ve probably all done this. You come across a technique or activity from another program and think, “That could really help my students.”

And it can! Borrowing effective methods and techniques from other MSSL programs can be a great way to strengthen instruction—as long as we know what to borrow and how to use it without disrupting the scope and sequence.

Dr. Thomas J. Diebold takes a closer look at how to do just that in his latest post.

08/12/2026

📚 They’re back—and beautifully redesigned!

Stevenson’s supplemental decodable readers have returned!

These familiar favorites have been redesigned with beautiful new hand-drawn illustrations, while continuing to give students meaningful practice with the phonics skills they are learning in the Beginning Level of the Stevenson Language Skills Program.

We’re so excited to make Books 1–5 available again—with a fresh new look for a new generation of Stevenson readers.

And the response from students has already made us smile:

“I’m reading a book!” ❤️

That’s what it’s all about—giving struggling readers the skills, practice, and confidence to experience themselves as real readers.

📖 Books 1–5 are available now at TheNeedToRead.org.

07/25/2026

✨ What if students could remember phonics as easily as they remember their favorite foods?

The Stevenson Reading Program teaches phonics in a way that makes sense to students. Using memorable process mnemonics, learners build strong phonics skills they can remember and confidently apply while reading.

Because when phonics sticks, confident readers grow.

💙 Learn more at TheNeedToRead.org

07/24/2026

When reading instruction isn't working, it's time to try something else. Not all Science of Reading Programs are alike. Don't wait. 📚

07/22/2026

Struggling readers need explicit, structured instruction. Our unique mnemonic clues turn confusion into clarity and keep students moving forward.

07/17/2026

Be patient, encouraging and celebrate every step forward! 📖

07/14/2026

07/14/2026

Never outgrow reading aloud. Whether your child is 4 or 14, hearing fluent reading strengthens vocabulary, builds comprehension, develops listening skills, and fosters a lifelong love of reading. Reading together is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to help children become strong, confident readers. 📚

07/13/2026

Strong readers aren't built by books alone—they're built through conversation. Every chat at the dinner table, in the car, or on a walk helps grow the language skills children need to become confident readers.

07/08/2026

No child should spend another school year wondering why reading feels so hard.

If reading instruction isn't working, it's okay to ask questions and consider a different approach.

The Science of Reading isn't one-size-fits-all. It's about using evidence-based instruction that meets the needs of each learner.

Every struggling reader deserves more than another year of waiting. They deserve instruction that works.