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David Appleyard

David Appleyard

David has over a decade of experience in early years and reading as a school governor and EYFS lead. He's spent 20+ years working in online education for Envato and Design Shack, teaching creative and technical skills to millions (and managing a team of educators).

He's also taught two boys to read from scratch — and remembers exactly how bewildering the early stages can feel. He knows this journey from both sides of the fence.

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July 6, 2026 • 7 min read

How to keep kids reading all summer (without a battle)

Keep kids reading all summer with habit-building strategies. Prevent the summer slide and make reading a natural part of holiday life.

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July 2, 2026 • 6 min read

Biff, Chip and Kipper books: a parent’s guide to Oxford Reading Tree

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June 29, 2026 • 6 min read

First reading books: what to look for and how to choose

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June 25, 2026 • 6 min read

What is a “reading scheme”? A plain-English guide for parents

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June 22, 2026 • 5 min read

National Writing Day: using reading to spark children’s writing

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June 18, 2026 • 5 min read

Make Father’s Day about stories, not just socks

Make Father's Day special with reading. Book gift ideas, stories about dads, and ways to build reading traditions with the father figures in your child's life.

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