mapColumbus, IN

About

The Institute of Reading Development offers summer reading programs, monthly reading programs, 1:1 tutoring, a reading diagnostic, a summer reading camp, a masterclass for parents, and a reading evaluation. Programs include live online classes and practice in an online learning center between live classes for about 15 minutes a day. Group programs take place in small groups, with most redesigned summer groups including just 6 students.

• Ages: 4–18 years old
• Schedule: 4-week and 8-week options for summer reading programs; Summer Reading Camp runs five days, three hours a day
• Price: Summer Reading Programs include a 4-Week Program ($249) and an 8-Week Bundle ($398); Monthly Reading Programs are $199/month (cancel anytime); 1:1 Tutoring is $349/month; Reading Diagnostic is $49 and credits toward the first month of 1:1 tutoring; Summer programs starting at $249; Enroll Now — $249

The Institute of Reading Development focuses exclusively on reading and offers live online reading programs for Pre-K through 12th grade, with group programs available for Pre-K through 8th grade and 1:1 tutoring for all ages including high school. Its curriculum connects phonics, fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, and critical analysis in an integrated system and has been refined over five decades. Families receive weekly progress updates, and most families see visible improvement within the first two weeks. The program also offers a free 22-page Reading Skill Mastery by Stage guide and a free Reading Mastery Guide.

Programs are taught by expert reading teachers who focus exclusively on reading instruction and are trained in a curriculum developed and refined over 56 years. Teachers are hired from fewer than 3% of applicants. The Institute offers a 100% refund within 72 hours of purchase for summer programs, with graduated refunds through April 30 and May, and a “We’ll Make It Right” commitment after the program starts, which can include adjusting the teacher or level instead of refunds. The reading diagnostic fee credits toward the first month of 1:1 tutoring.

The Institute of Reading Development was founded in 1970 in Northern California and describes its history as 56 years of reading excellence and 56 years of building readers, with a curriculum refined every year. Its mission is stated as building skilled, enthusiastic readers since 1970, with the phrase “56 Years. One Mission. Better Readers.” The leadership team includes Doug Evans (CEO), Josh Kizner (COO), and Paul Copperman (Founder & President Emeritus).

The Institute has partnered with more than 200 universities across the United States, offers school partnerships and professional development programs, and reports having worked with more than 200 partners and served over 3 million families across the United States. It cites credentials including being trusted by 3 million families since 1970, 3M+ families served, 200+ university partners, 1,320+ 5-star reviews, and a 98% recommend rate. Instruction is described as evidence-based reading instruction, and the summer reading camp is described as an immersive reading experience from home.

Parent testimonials include statements such as “Before it was like pulling teeth to read,” “His confidence has grown exponentially,” “This is just a really great opportunity,” and “This made a huge difference for our family.” One parent of a 2nd grader, Wendy K., says, “This program has been a lifesaver for my child's confidence. She can read more fluently and has started to comprehend what she's reading so much better.” Rochelle L., parent of a 3rd grader, says, “My son had major breakthroughs. His overall confidence has grown so much. He went from avoiding books to asking to read before bed.” Matthew R., parent of a 5th grader, says, “We searched for a program that could help our daughter, and nothing worked until this. This program is absolutely amazing. I will recommend this to everyone.” Laura T., parent of a 1st grader, says, “She is so excited about learning phonics and being able to recognize more words! The teachers have great energy and make learning fun.”

Last updated May 14, 2026.

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