Explode the Code Review

by Leigh V.
(Massachusetts)

Product: Explode the Code
Subject: phonics
Levels Used: books 1-8
Dates Used: 2005-present

Likes: I have used Explode the Code (ETC) with three children now, one of which has learning differences, and I like the simple and direct approach the publishers take to learning phonics.

I like that it is not overly repetitive or visually distracting. The hand drawings and silly sentences are just enough to hold any child's attention and interest.

I also like that although my child with LD was much older than the "recommended age/grade" when he began using this program, we still found it to be the perfect balance-- not "dumbed down" by cutesy cartoons and not overly academic.

Dislikes: Phonics rules are not introduced anywhere in the series.