What Kaley Sara Wants Parents to Know About Early Readers

Kaley Sara, an early literacy educator on Instagram, explains why safety, curiosity, and flexibility matter more than structure when building a child’s reading confidence.

What do parents and educators often overlook about how young children build confidence as early readers?

One of the biggest things that gets overlooked is that confidence doesn’t come from getting everything right. It comes from feeling safe while learning. Young children need space to make mistakes without feeling rushed or corrected all the time. When reading turns into something that feels high-pressure, kids start to doubt themselves, but when adults focus on encouragement, patience, and progress over perfection, children begin to see themselves as capable readers.

What small daily habits can help children feel more curious and excited about books?

It really comes down to keeping things simple and consistent. Reading doesn’t need to be a long or structured activity to be meaningful. Even a few minutes of shared reading, talking about pictures, or letting kids pick what they want to read can spark curiosity. When children feel that reading connects to their interests and their everyday life, it becomes something they want to return to, not something they feel forced to do.

When children feel frustrated or discouraged while learning to read, how can adults support them without overwhelming them?

First, adults need to stay calm. Kids are incredibly aware of our reactions. If we become anxious or push too hard, that frustration only grows. It helps to acknowledge that reading can feel challenging and to normalize that struggle. Sometimes stepping back, taking a break, or simply saying, “This is hard, and that’s OK,” can make a big difference. Support doesn’t always mean fixing the problem; it often means being present.

What matters most when creating a reading routine that feels realistic, joyful, and sustainable?

Flexibility is key. A routine doesn’t have to look the same every day to be effective. Life is busy, and families need something that fits into their real schedules. What matters more than structure is consistency over time and keeping the experience positive. When reading feels relaxed and enjoyable, children are much more likely to engage and build a lasting relationship with books.

How can adults notice and respond to small moments during reading that strengthen connection and understanding?

Children often share what they’re thinking through small comments, questions, or even body language. When adults slow down and truly listen, those moments become opportunities for connection. Responding with curiosity — asking why a child noticed something or how a story made them feel — shows them that their thoughts matter. That sense of being heard strengthens trust and makes reading a shared, meaningful experience rather than just an activity.

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