Why Some Struggling Readers Need a Different Path, Not More Practice

What if the biggest reading breakthrough for struggling kids is not teaching more phonics first, but changing the order entirely? Dr. Deborah reveals how Reverse Reading helps children build confidence, fluency, and comprehension without drowning in cognitive overload. If you are a parent, educator, tutor, or IEP advocate who has watched a child do “everything right” and still fall behind, this conversation will feel both validating and practical. Courtney Burnett shares her own lived experience as a struggling reader, while Brandi helps connect the dots between emotional safety, literacy, and why traditional intervention can hit a dead end. You'll discover: Why some children can recite phonics rules but still cannot read fluently how Reverse Reading starts with meaningful words, language, and connection before decoding The neuroscience behind cognitive overload and working memory strain Why confidence and regulation are not extras, but the foundation for reading growth What families should ask when a child is making effort but not making progress Dr. Deborah explains how her structured approach helps students feel success early so reading becomes smoother, less stressful, and more automatic over time. She also breaks down the practical side of the method, including how little prep it requires and why a short, consistent routine can make a big difference for struggling readers. This episode is especially important if you are sitting in school meetings, wondering why the current intervention is not closing the gap. It is a reminder that a child who is struggling with reading is not lazy or incapable - they may simply need a different pathway. Perfect for parents, teachers, homeschoolers, tutors, and anyone looking for a more compassionate, brain-based approach to reading support. Dr. Deborah is the creator of Reverse Reading and helps children who struggle with traditional instruction build fluency through a different order of learning. Courtney Burnett brings personal and professional insight into how reading struggles affect confidence and long-term learning, while Brandi guides the conversation for families and educators seeking real solutions. Learn more at www.reversereading.com.