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Two homeschool reading and phonics programs, compared on what actually decides the fit: how your child reads now, how much you'll teach, and how each one is delivered.
Updated September 2026 · based on parent reviews and publisher information
These two are close: the differences are small, so price, grade range and what parents say below may decide it.
Still torn? Answer a few questions and see how both rank for your child, side by side.
Compare for my child| All About Reading | Barton Reading & Spelling System | |
|---|---|---|
| Grades | PreK–4 | K–12+ (tutoring system) |
| Approach | Orton-Gillingham, mastery | Orton-Gillingham, remedial |
| Who teaches | The parent teaches from a scripted guide | The parent teaches from a scripted guide |
| Parent prep | Low (fully scripted) | Low (fully scripted, DVD-trained) |
| Screen time | Mostly offline (books and paper) | Mostly offline (books and paper) |
| Faith | No religious content | No religious content |
| Cost | $159.95 per level (Levels 1–4); Pre-Reading level $119.95. Letter tiles $25.95 one-time, reusable into All About Spelling | Publisher doesn't post prices online; independent reviews cite roughly $300–$350 per level across 10 levels |
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| Common complaints |
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Parents consistently point to the Orton-Gillingham method and full scripting as reasons a struggling or anxious reader finally clicks with this program. The trade-off shows up just as often: it asks for real one-on-one time every day, and the upfront cost for a full set of levels adds up.
Reviewers and parents consistently call Barton the strongest home-based option for a child with dyslexia, with training DVDs and full scripting so no teaching background is needed. The cost per level is real money, and several reviews describe the drilling as repetitive and not especially fun, even while calling it effective.
Neither is better for every child. All About Reading is the stronger fit for not yet reading; just starting (letter sounds); reading simple words. Barton Reading & Spelling System is the stronger fit for others.
All About Reading: $159.95 per level (Levels 1–4); Pre-Reading level $119.95. Letter tiles $25.95 one-time, reusable into All About Spelling. Barton Reading & Spelling System: Publisher doesn't post prices online; independent reviews cite roughly $300–$350 per level across 10 levels.
Summaries are in our own words.