Can anyone recommend specific software programs to address beginning reading skills? The children have high functioning PDD and are having trouble with retention. They love the computer and could get the added practice and drill that they need at home with a good software program. Unfortunately they seem to get easily sidetracked by the music and nongoal oriented components that are included in many commercial programs. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
I have had good success with the Sound Reading CD from http://www.soundreading.com . Children like it, and it starts from the beginning and takes them all the way through multi-syllable words — about a 3rd grade level. The program sequences the exercises for them, and does not let a child proceed to the next exercise until the one before that is mastered. Would be excellent for your situation, I think. It is pretty new — out only a year or two — and very good. It would not replace an explicit reading program, but it is a wonderful supplement to just about any reading program I can think of.
Nancy