Read, Write & Type by Talking Fingers Inc. Review

Read, Write & Type by Talking Fingers Inc. is an online reading software that is highly research based. I was so excited to be asked to review Read, Write & Type for the Schoolhouse Review Crew. My son is soon going to be 5 and this looked like a fun way to teach him some language arts skills! Overall my son, whom I call Boober, did well. Due to his age, he did have some difficulty in some areas within the program. I explain more below, but first let me tell you more about the program!

About Read, Write & Type

Read, Write & Type takes your child through 40 lessons on 40 different phonetics. The lessons are taught by Lefty (the left hand’s model), Rightway (the right hand’s model), and Vexor (the vexing quizmaster). The lessons will start with an introduction to a new sound, usually at the beginning of a word, but sometimes at the end. Moving from typing single letters to, blends and words, then sentences- which is beyond what I expect Boober to grasp. The program targets children ages 6-8 and contains other features that can help children whose native language is one other than English or even those with learning disabilities. The program uses music and storyline to teach. It keeps children engaged as they work through lessons and practice. The program is not a game, however.

Keeping the hands securely positioned on the home row keys seems to be the central theme. The model hands demonstrate how to move the fingers and type the proper keys. In a world that is so computer focused, having great typing skills can really help set your child up for success. Read, Write & Type also covers other areas of Language Arts beyond typing, including phonics, spelling, and punctuation. Students must achieve a certain level of accuracy before moving onto new lessons.

Read, Write & Type by Talking Fingers Inc. is a research-based system. It has been proven to improve reading skills when using it regularly. Boober was connecting letters on the keyboard with the sound that they made and the finger to use while typing it. Although admittedly with him being as young as he is, a year and a half younger then the recommended ages, I think he could still use some help with his motor skills to make typing a little easier.

Want to know more?

Lessons are only 15 minutes to half an hour a day, and target multiple learning styles. If you are a regular reader of TFM you know I am all about knowing and teaching to your child’s learning style. I love curriculum that can cover multiple learning styles. It can be really helpful for families with multiple learning styles, like mine. We have a kinesthetic (Boober) and visual learner (Red) in our family. You get your money’s worth with the option to place multiple students on the program. Plus I love the parent view with feedback and results. You also have the ability to print out certificates which may help motivate some students.

My thoughts?

My son really liked the storyline. If I was using this for my daughter I might have some concerns about sensory overload. If your child has sensory processing issues I would be aware that there is music and lots of bright colors. I wouldn’t hesitate to get this for Boober, I think he will gain a lot from the program being a hands on, or kinesthetic learner, I see the benefit of typing as he learns to read.