This post features Dr. Marnie Ginsberg’s recent appearance on the KidNuz Convos podcast—a special episode to help kids understand why they struggle with reading and what they can do to improve.
Marnie and host Tori Campbell discuss simple, science-backed strategies that help struggling readers build confidence and momentum.
And for teachers and parents, it’s full of insights you can use to make helping struggling readers far less overwhelming.
Because when kids feel capable, reading isn’t just a skill—it’s a door to independence and confidence.
That’s what this KidNuz Convos episode— “Sun, Sand, Lemonade and a Good Book: The Importance of Summer Reading” — is all about.
And while it first aired on the KidNuz podcast during the summer, the insights and tips are powerful all year long.
What Makes Reading Tricky for So Many Kid
- Marnie and Tori take a closer look at how kids in the U.S. are doing with reading—and the results aren’t exactly encouraging.
- They explain what researchers have discovered about how reading works and how it can be effectively taught.
- Reading isn’t something that comes naturally to most kids. Our brains aren’t wired to read—we have to train them.
- That’s why Marnie reminds listeners that when reading feels hard, it’s not the child who needs to change—it's the system that needs to adapt and evolve.
How to Help Struggling Readers Get Unstuck
- If reading feels frustrating, you’re not alone. Marnie shares simple tips any kid can try to make reading a little easier.
- One of the biggest breakthroughs? Learning how to crack the code—aka sounding out words to connect sounds to letters.
- Marnie also discusses what happens when reading gets more complex and challenging in upper elementary grades—and how to continue growing as a reader.
What Reading Research Tells Us About Helping Struggling Readers
- Have you ever heard adults arguing about phonics versus whole language? Don’t worry, you’re not expected to solve that one!
- Marnie breaks down why these debates matter—and why kids deserve clear, effective reading instruction that actually works.
- She even unpacks a few “big words” in the reading world, so everyone’s in the loop.
Who Is Marnie—and Why She Cares So Much About Reading
- Marnie shares her story about how she became passionate about helping kids (and grown-ups!) learn to read.
- She also introduces Reading Simplified, a system for teachers, parents, and tutors to help struggling or stuck readers move forward—faster.
What Should Be in Every Kid’s “Reading Diet”
- Marnie reminds us that reading can be fun. The trick? Find books you want to read.
- Just like a healthy food diet gives you energy, a reading diet feeds your brain—and gives you an edge in school and life.
- So, whether you're into comics, mysteries, nonfiction, or fantasy, get your hands on a book, magazine, or newspaper!
Listen to the Full Episode or Read the Transcript
Listen now to “Sun, Sand, Lemonade and a Good Book” on KidNuz Convos – featuring Dr. Marnie Ginsberg.
Prefer reading? Check out the full transcript here.
For educators, this episode is a great one to share with your students' families before breaks—or to use in a class discussion about reading goals and motivation.
It’s also a helpful resource to remind adults that reading difficulties aren’t the child’s fault—and that simple, effective strategies do exist.
💡Looking for a fun extension activity?
Point students and families to our Reading Simplified's “Science Shorts” on YouTube for engaging, kid-friendly videos that explain how reading works in simple terms.
What Is KidNuz—and Why Teachers and Families Love It
If you’re not already familiar with KidNuz, it’s a kid-friendly news podcast that delivers current events in just under 10 minutes a day.
It’s perfect for building listening comprehension, vocabulary, and curiosity—without a screen in sight.
Many parents use it in the car, at breakfast, or as part of a wind-down routine.
Pair a quick KidNuz episode with a few minutes of reading each day, and you’ve got a simple recipe to help your struggling readers build steady reading growth.
Want to take it a step further?
Read the transcript together and have your child pick out their favorite fact, quote, or joke—it’s a great way to spark discussion and deepen comprehension.
Your Turn! How Are You Supporting Struggling Readers?
Have you listened to KidNuz with your kids yet? We’d love to hear what they think!
🎧 Listen to the episode here.
📖 Read the full transcript here.
What was their favorite story from the episode?
Did it spark a reading idea, a curious question, or even a trip to the library?
Drop a comment below and let us know—bonus points if you include a quote from your kiddo! Their voices are what this is all about.
