Jessica Diaz
Reading Coach ⚪️ Former Teacher ⚪️ Mom on a Mission
Hey there, amazing parents!
I'm Jessica, and I'm here to help you guide your kids on their reading journey with practical resources, encouragement, and a dash of fun!
My Journey to becoming a Reading Coach
Struggles with Reading
My path to becoming a reading coach started in my own childhood. Believe it or not, I really struggled to learn to read. My mom was my biggest supporter, driving me an hour each way every Saturday for over a year so I could get the tutoring I needed. Eventually, something clicked, and I grew to love reading so much that now, according to my Kindle app, I’ve read over 70 books this year alone—and it’s only September!
A Passion Turned Career
Fast forward, and I became a teacher, earned a Master’s degree in Reading, Writing, and Literacy from the University of Pennsylvania, and spent 10 years teaching. But it wasn’t until my daughter, Emma, started having her own challenges with reading that I realized just how much parents need support. I created reading kits that break down skills in a way that’s easy for kids to grasp—and even more importantly, keep them from getting bored. I quickly saw that the strategies I developed for Emma could help other parents too, and that’s when my coaching journey really took off.
"I struggled to learn to read as a kid, but now I help children overcome those same challenges every day!"
My Teaching Philosophy
When it comes to teaching reading, I believe in a clear, efficient approach. Lessons should be explicit, so kids can easily understand, and efficient, so they don’t lose interest. But I also know how important it is to foster a love of reading through bonding experiences, like reading to your kids regularly or even making themed book snacks (yep, we’ve made snacks to match our favorite stories—my kids love it!).
I I get that sometimes parents want to help their kids but don’t know where to start. That’s where I come in! My reading kits are designed to give you all the tools you need, making it easy and fun for both you and your child.
What Makes My Approach Different?
My reading kits combine everything your child needs for success:
decodable readers
mapped high-frequency words
phonological awareness activities
vocabulary activities
word spotlights (a breakdown of unfamiliar words)
handwriting practice
Leveled readers, which most schools use, aren’t always based on phonics and spelling rules, making them harder for beginning readers. That’s why I spent over a year creating decodable readers for my daughter, following phonics and spelling rules that build in difficulty—one small step at a time. My comprehensive approach ensures that your child not only reads but understands how words work, giving them the tools to become confident readers.
A Little Bit About Me
When I’m not reading (usually science fiction or fantasy), I’m spending time with my two wonderful kids. We love board games, card games, and playing on our Nintendo Switch (ever heard of Drink More Glurp? It’s a family favorite!). My kids are also big fans of our weekly book-themed snacks, which we cook up together based on whatever story we’re diving into. It’s a fun way to make reading come alive!
Why I Do What I Do
I truly believe reading is the most important skill we can give our kids. It opens doors, impacts learning in every subject, and even influences the opportunities we’ll have later in life. Helping parents teach their kids to read is my way of giving back and making a difference. I know firsthand how challenging it can be, but I also know how rewarding it is to see your child grow as a reader.
Let’s embark on this reading adventure together! I can’t wait to help you nurture a lifelong love of reading in your child.
"Helping parents teach their kids to read is my way of making a difference."
