Choosing a learn-to-read program can feel overwhelming (there are so many options out there!) and not all of them are secular or a good fit for home use. Below, I’ve rounded up some popular secular reading programs and supplements, with a quick look at what makes each one unique.
| Full Program? | Affordability | Methodology | Parent Involvement | Format | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Reading | Yes | $$ | Multi-sensory phonics and nature based with influences from Waldorf and Montessori | High | Flexible digital guide for parents to implement |
| Logic of English | Yes | $$$ Can often be found used. |
Science of Reading, phonics-based, focus on sounding out over memorization. Optional sight word book. | High (scripted lessons) | Print + digital options. Includes handwriting options (manuscript and cursive) |
| All About Reading | Yes | $$$ Can often be found used. |
Orton-Gillingham, multi-sensory phonics. | High (scripted, hands-on) | Print with manipulatives. Optional apps. |
| Explode the Code | Supplement | $ | Phonics, decoding, sentence, and spelling practice | Moderate (parents check work and teach as needed) | Workbook based. |
| Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons | Yes | $ | Direct Instruction, phonics-based | High (scripted lessons) | Guided oral lessons all out of a single printed book |
| Open Source Phonics | Yes | FREE | Phonics, systematic | Moderate (requires parent delivery) | Digital resource with printables |
| UFLI Foundations | Yes | Free resources, but also has manual you can buy | Science of Reading Structured, phonics-based, uses “heart words” | High (manual has scripted lessons) | Print teacher guide + digital resources + some YouTube lessons |
| Khan Academy Kids | Supplement | FREE | Mixed: phonics, sight words, comprehension | Low (parents can send specific lessons and set different grade levels for different subjects) | App for iOS and Android. Not playable on browser. Includes LOTS of other subjects |
| Nessy | Supplement | $$$ Subscription | Science of Reading, dyslexia-friendly | Low | Digital + App |
| Teach Your Monster to Read | Supplement | Free web version, paid apps (that routinely go on sale) | Phonics, sight words, game-based | Low | Web browser + App |
| Poio (by Kahoot) | Supplement | Paid app (one-time or subscription) | Game-based, story-driven phonics and sight word practice | Low | App for iOS and Android |
Programs I Do Not Recommend
This is not an exhaustive list, but I want to hit on ones I often see recommended still in secular spaces.
Good and Beautiful – While popular due to being offered for free, it is highly religious and overall not a strong program.
ABC Mouse – While marketed as educational, it’s largely a subscription-based app with a heavy focus on screen time and a scattered approach to literacy. Not a strong choice for teaching reading systematically. Helps fund the Church of Scientology.
Reading Eggs – Engaging and colorful, but relies on sight words and repetitive games rather than systematic phonics instruction. Works as a supplement for some families, but not recommended as a core program. Removed LGBTQ+ books after complaints from a few right-winged Christians.
The Ordinary Parent’s Guide to Teaching Reading – While it does not include explicit religious content, the authors (Jessie Wise and Sara Buffington) have strong ties to Christian publishing. It’s similar in approach to Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons. Because of the authors’ connections and the availability of stronger secular alternatives, I don’t recommend it here.
Rooted in Language – While marketed as secular, the author is affiliated with an anti-LGBTQ+ church, so I do not recommend this resource.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a reading program, think about your child’s needs and your teaching style. If you want a complete, scripted curriculum, Logic of English, All About Reading, or UFLI Foundations might be the way to go. Wild Reading might work best for kids who need lots of movement and families who enjoy nature. If you’re looking for affordable or supplemental options, Open Source Phonics, Explode the Code, or Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons are strong choices. For kids who thrive on games and apps, Nessy, Teach Your Monster to Read, Poio, or Khan Academy Kids can make learning to read more engaging.
There’s no single “best” program; it’s all about finding the right fit for your learner and your unique homeschool.
Rabbit Hole Learning 
Leave a comment