Before children can read words, they must understand sounds and letters—and how they connect. In this episode, we introduce Alphabetics (ABCs), our family-friendly way of explaining phonemic awareness and phonics.
You’ll learn why hearing sounds (phonemes) and matching them to letters is non-negotiable, how these skills develop, and how adults can support them through simple, proven practices. Evelyn English demonstrates activities you can use immediately—no fancy tools required.

Literacy is more than reading—it’s thinking, problem-solving, speaking, listening, and understanding the world. In this episode, we define literacy clearly and show how foundational skills build the brain.
You’ll see HQIM in action, learn how to properly handle books, and hear a full story demonstration using before, during, and after reading strategies. We explicitly connect foundational literacy to critical thinking—showing how intentional teaching prepares learners for school success and lifelong learning.
We close with a call to action, inviting families and educators to join us weekly and access HQIM that makes evidence-based literacy doable and sustainable.

If children can read the words but don’t understand them, literacy hasn’t done its job. This episode focuses on comprehension—the purpose of reading.
We connect all Science of Reading components, explain the role of High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM), and model lessons that make thinking visible. Listeners leave knowing how to support understanding, curiosity, and problem-solving—not just decoding.

Vocabulary isn’t memorization—it’s meaning. This episode unpacks how word recognition and accuracy work together to support confident reading.
We explore how conversation, storytelling, and intentional word use build comprehension long before children read independently. You’ll hear practical examples, demonstration lessons, and strategies that strengthen literacy while keeping learning joyful and human.

Fluency isn’t speed—it’s understanding. This episode unpacks how language development works to support confident reading.
We explore how conversation, storytelling, and intentional word use build comprehension long before children read independently. You’ll hear practical examples, demonstration lessons, and strategies that strengthen literacy while keeping learning joyful and human.

Welcome to Brainy Acts Literacy Blooms—where early literacy meets brain science and real-world practice. In this launch episode, we introduce the heart behind the podcast, share the host’s early education origin story, and explain why literacy before age five matters more than most people realize. With 90% of the brain developing by age five, what we do early shapes learning for life.
Created for families, educators, childcare providers, and advocates, this episode builds trust, sets the vision, and includes a demonstration read-aloud from a literacy specialist that shows how evidence-promoted teaching actually looks in action.
🎧 If you care about readiness, confidence, and joyful learning—this is where it starts.