Teachers know that establishing a robust independent reading program takes more than giving kids a little quiet time after lunch. But how do they set up a program that will maximize their students' gains? Teachers have to know their students' reading levels inside and out, help them find just-right books, and continue to guide them during independent time. When students are given the chance to practice and strengthen their reading skills on high-quality, high-interest books that they can read with confidence and accuracy, they will make progress--in fact, studies have shown that independent reading is the best way to get students to make gains. In this article, reading expert Jennifer Serravallo answers tough questions on how to make the most of independent time.