The premise of this book is that most children are ready to learn to read at age four and that parents are capable of teaching their own children to read. Ways in which parents can and do aid in the development of a child's language are discussed. This development of oral language is very important to learning to read the language and is usually accomplished by the age of four. Examples of successful early readers are cited to support this theory. Guidelines are given to help parents recognize signs of reading readiness such as size of vocabulary, speaking clearly, hearing well, showing interest in reading letters and words, visual acuity, and attentiveness. A step by step program that parents can use to teach a child who is ready to read is explained. Instructions are given in the teaching of sight word vocabulary, phonics, and writing. (MKM)