Sorry, AAS is All about Spelling, which is a phonics-based spelling program. It is mastery-based and involves the use of letter tiles. We are only up to Step 4 of level 1, but we like it so far. I know formal spelling really isn’t very CM, but something that I felt was important.
I started using 100 EZ with my DD when she was around age 4 or 5. It was SO boring for her! She already knew all her letters and sounds, and throwing in saying the sounds slowly just made the lessons drag. The book suggested not to skip any lessons, and each lesson is dictated for you (not my thing) so we just quit after a few days of it. We switched to Explode the Code, and she enjoyed it much better. HOWEVER, the 100 EZ was recommended by a friend, and I had two other friends who were using it successfully with their boys. Not sure if it’s a boy vs. girl thing, but it wasn’t for us. I really like the flexibility of teaching in my own style using a curriculum instead of having the dictation laid out for me.
We are in the very beginning stages of Delightful Reading and my ds definitely looks at it as a lesson/game. He can’t wait to use his Word Book, actually, I think he already added something, anyway, he loves the tiles. I think it is important for his learning style that he has something tangible to work with, and he does not do well with the scripted dialogue (and neither do I). We do use a small amount of Sing Spell Read and Write, mostly for cutting/pasting, etc., it keeps him busy when I’m working with his bros. And, I still lean to the Reading Reflex explanation of things but am not using the program for him right now, only DR.
I used 100 EZ with my son @ 3 1/2 – we went to lesson 70ish & then scrapped it for the summer, picking it up again from the beginning, at a faster pace, in the fall & finishing it. We skipped the writing part & used sticky notes to cover up the pictures – the anticipation/prize of uncovering the pic. motivated him to finish the story. I rarely had him read the story twice – too long for my little boy to sit. Personally, I LOVED this book & am planning on trying it out with my 3 yr. old daughter after Christmas or next fall (she’s picking up letters & sounds on her own right now…).
I also love the Leapfrog DVDs (Talking Letters, Talking Words, The Letter Factory, Word Caper, Let’s Go to School). 100 EZ & these DVDs combined have been a great phonics/reading program for my kids! And I have hardly had to do any work!
A friend of mine tried this with her daughter & she said it did not work for her. I really think it worked for me because it was right up MY alley – reading “exactly” what was written – AND worked with my son’s learning style. I did read a bit of the intro in the book to get an understanding of WHY they did what they did, and that allowed me to improvise, cut/add where I wanted.
As far as spelling goes, we’re excited to use the SCM Spelling Wisdom books in later years & not worry about that at this point. That being said, my ds, 5 yrs. presently, has his occasional spelling mistakes – he LOVES to write notes & words everywhere! – but I’m surprised how when I throw him a curve-ball for fun, such as spelling “field” out loud, he’s got it. He has always loved reading – not so much out loud to me, but just looking at books for an hour at a time (quiet time after lunch) – I’m not sure if the spelling can be attributed to being a visual learner like his mama – the words are just in his head like pictures…
Anyhow, I LOVE that at the end of 100 EZ the child is reading at a gr. 2 level. This has been such a gift for my ds, as he has been able to explore & enjoy books for longer periods of time, as well as reading for instructions (mine or other activity books).
I would definetly recommend 100 EZ, but it may not be for you! You’ll just have to try it out! I took a copy out of the library too, before purchasing.
Blessings! Enjoy your & your child’s *uniqueness*! I’m sure you all are doing a great job with your children!!!