Ep. 63 - How to Raise Strong Readers with Spencer Russell

Can toddlers really learn to read? And can homeschool moms truly teach them—even without formal training? Absolutely. In this episode, Christy-Faith sits down with Spencer Russell, award-winning educator and founder of Toddlers Can Read, to talk about how early literacy is simpler (and more doable) than most parents realize.

We’ll break down the science of reading, bust myths about toddler development, and explore why empowering parents—especially homeschool moms—to teach reading at home can be a total game changer. Whether your child is 2, 5, or 7, this episode is packed with encouragement, simple strategies, and a big reminder: you are more qualified than you think.

The Christy-Faith Show | Ep. 63

🛠️ LINKS & RESOURCES

Free Homeschooling Resources
Tools, downloads, and support to help you homeschool with confidence:
👉 https://christy-faith.com/links

Thrive Homeschool Community
Build a homeschool you love—plus connect with the Working Mom’s Mastermind:
👉 https://christy-faith.com/thrive

Christy-Faith’s Book: Homeschool Rising
Shattering myths. Finding courage. Opting out of the system.
👉 https://christy-faith.com/book-homeschool-rising

Sample Homeschool Schedules (Free Download)
See how real homeschool moms structure their days:
👉 https://christy-faith.com/links

Toddlers Can Read
Follow Spencer Russell and access free resources to start teaching early:
👉 https://www.toddlerscanread.com

Lovevery Reading Skill Set
✔ 98% of kids improved scores in 6 weeks
✔ Based on the science of reading, but feels like play
✔ Use code CHRISTY10 for 10% off
👉 https://lovevery.com/christyfaith

🎙️ SHOW SPONSORS

BJU Press Homeschool
✔ Full curriculum or mix-and-match
✔ Perfect for different ages and learning needs
✔ Built on a biblical worldview
👉 https://www.bjupresshomeschool.com/christy

CTC Math
✔ Online math for grades K–12
✔ 50% off for homeschool families
✔ Self-paced with full grading support
👉 https://ctcmath.com/how-it-works/home-school?tr_id=CF

LearningRx
✔ Cognitive skills training for kids with ADHD, dyslexia & more
✔ $50 off with code HOME50
👉 https://LearningRx.com or call 866-272-4601

🎧 SHOW RECAP

In this episode, we dive into what it really takes to raise strong readers—starting from toddlerhood—and why homeschooling moms are uniquely equipped for the job.

✅ Why toddlers can learn to read—and why it’s simpler than you think
✅ What the “science of reading” actually means (in plain English)
✅ How traditional reading instruction often sets kids up to guess, not decode
✅ Why confidence and small, consistent steps beat curriculum overload
✅ How the right mindset about ability changes everything
✅ Encouragement for moms who feel overwhelmed or underqualified
✅ Why screen-free, play-based learning builds stronger reading skills

Whether your child is struggling, soaring, or just starting, this episode will leave you feeling empowered, equipped, and excited for the journey ahead.

📌 Like, subscribe, and share this episode with a fellow homeschool parent who's ready to see their child fall in love with reading.

💬 Has early reading felt intimidating for you? Drop your experience in the comments—we’d love to encourage you!