I read an article about how teaching a kid how to read too early deprives them of the opportunity to learn reading together with their peers, even sets a stage for other kids to dislike them because he/she knows something that they don’t. Is this true? Reading came very early for me like it did for my son. Both my grandfathers were elementary school principals and both contributed (along with my parents) in teaching the kids in our family to read before kindergarten. Also, I do notice how in schools here in the US, kids are disliked and branded as “nerds” for doing well in school which is quite opposite from where I grew up. I would appreciate your comments regarding this.

I’m thrilled about your success with your youngster. I’m a firm believer that you don’t penalize your child for being bright. Most 4-year-olds are ready to read and excited to start figuring out this code we call language. Why would a caring, concerned adult try and stop or slow down that process? I teach 4-year-olds in my preschool every year to read, and they love it, and can do it, and excel throughout the rest of their school days.

Most adults that I’ve come across who don’t like the idea of teaching children to read at an age when they are ready to learn have something else in mind for their child. You are the parent, and you know your child best. Ignore the negative and realize that your child is reading! How remarkable is that! His whole academic world just got easier and school just became a thing he can do very well, instead of something to be worried about and confused about. Bravo for you!

I don’t believe that learning to read with ones peer is an important concept at all, as almost every first grade program in the country is divided up into reading, math, language groups based upon where they are tested at the beginning of the year. Your child will be at the top of his class—again, bravo for you and him!

There are many national statistics that back-up early reading. A recent study showed that a very high percentage of high school honor students started reading before they were formally taught in first grade.

As for being labeled a “nerd”, that label doesn’t necessarily get applied because your child can read. You will find that there will be many other bright, intelligent children in your child’s class that can read or are very close to figuring it out. Being able to read doesn’t automatically equal nerdship. I have three rough and tough boys, all athletic, and all are great readers and have always been. They aren’t labeled nerds because they could read, or because they did well in school. Exposing your child to other areas of interest: sports, sciences, arts, etc., will help him become well rounded, and not be a nerd. Again, I don’t believe that you penalize a child or hold him back because he’s bright. This is a blessing and gift that you have given him in helping him crack this code we call the English language. Keep up the good work. It sounds like you’re doing awesome.