Three keys to teaching your toddler how to read: 1) Check readiness. A child who is ready to read shows signs of interest. Does s/he try to sound out words or ask you to read them? Or ask you how a particular word is spelled? Or try to write words and letters, even if it looks like gibberish?

If so, make sure s/he sees you reading a lot. If your child asks about books you are reading or the newspaper, definitely engage with him or her, and explain why you are interested in it. Read to your child every chance you get and let your child see that you care about reading, too. And try to keep lots of books - both for adults and for kids, handy around home. You can often get kids' books quite inexpensively at thrift shops, yard sales, and even the library.

Also, try an early reading program. One great, inexpensive program that focuses on interactive play and games while teaching preschool fundamentals is Funetics. Visit: www.funeticslearning.com