Don't Accept "They're doing fine" | Reading Assessments Every Parent Should Understand

Have you ever been told, "They're doing fine," even though you know your child is struggling to read?

In this solo episode of The Reading Symphony Podcast, Katie Megrian explains how to understand your child's reading assessments, why vague reassurance isn't enough, and the questions every parent should ask before accepting that answer.

Drawing on more than 20 years of experience as a teacher, principal, district literacy leader, and parent advocate, Katie shares four real stories from families whose instincts were right - and explains how understanding assessment data can completely change conversations with your child's school.

You'll learn:

• The difference between Screeners, Diagnostic Assessments, and Progress Monitoring Assessments

• When it may be appropriate to request a formal evaluation

• Which reading assessments are backed by research

• What parents can do before the school year begins

• The three questions every parent should ask when discussing their child's reading progress

Whether you're concerned about dyslexia, reading intervention, or simply want to better understand your child's progress, this episode will help you become a more informed and confident advocate.

Resources Mentioned:

📖 How to Decode Your Child's Reading Assessments

📄 Quick Phonics Screener

📄 CORE Phonics Survey

📚 Reading Assessment Done Right

By Dr. Stephanie Stollar & Kate Winn

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome & Why Reading Assessments Matter

01:02 Four Stories That Changed Everything

05:16 The Four Types of Reading Assessments

05:51 1. Screeners

07:01 2. Diagnostic Assessments

08:28 3. Progress Monitoring Assessments

10:30 When Should You Request an Evaluation?

12:22 Which Reading Assessments Can You Trust?

13:08 What Parents Should Do Before School Starts

15:05 The Three Questions Every Parent Should Ask