The Reading Revolution That’s Just Landed in Australia — And Why Your Kids Might Love It More Than Screen Time

We were sent this as a sample — and honestly? It was too good not to tell you about.

As parents, we’ve tried all the things to get our kids interested in reading — from bedtime classics to noisy alphabet books that end up being used more like tambourines. But what if the solution to better literacy wasn’t in forcing the habit… but in making it fun?

Today marks the official Australian launch of Lovevery’s Reading Skill Set, a beautifully designed, play-based program for kids aged 3 to 7 years. It’s already made waves in the US, with 98% of children showing improvement in just 20 minutes a day. Now it’s landed on Aussie shores — and as a mum who’s tried it, I can confirm: it’s the real deal.

The Stats Don’t Lie — Our Kids Are Falling Behind in Reading

Let’s start with the why. According to NAPLAN National Results (2024), 1 in 3 Australian students are not meeting basic reading or writing standards. That’s a staggering number — and one that’s not just about education systems, but everyday habits.

The Grattan Institute Report (2024) called for urgent attention on phonics-based decoding skills, which essentially means teaching children how to sound out words from the earliest stages. Add to that the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2022) reporting that screen-based activities have overtaken reading for pleasure, and it’s easy to see how the decline is happening — not maliciously, but subtly, one “just ten more minutes” at a time.

Meet the Reading Skill Set: A Play-Based Approach to Phonics

So, what exactly is the Reading Skill Set?

It’s a phonics-forward, evidence-based learning system built around hands-on play and connection. Designed to grow with your child from age 3 to 7, it introduces key literacy skills through play kits, guided parent prompts, and kid-led storytelling.

We’re talking letter sound games, phoneme cards, engaging readers, and Montessori-inspired tools that don’t feel like “school at home” — they feel like a game your child wants to keep playing. The kits arrive in structured stages (based on skill development), making it super simple to start from wherever your child is at.

“We’re Building Confidence, Not Just Competence” – Spencer Russell

Lovevery’s Head of Literacy, Spencer Russell, is no stranger to the world of early childhood education. With over 2 million followers on Instagram and a background as an award-winning teacher, he’s made it his mission to help parents teach their children to read in joyful, connected ways.

We spoke with Spencer about what makes this different from your average flashcard app.

“Reading isn’t just decoding words — it’s about confidence. The best readers are the ones who feel good when they’re learning. That comes from play, from consistency, and from being seen in the process. Our goal was to create something that not only teaches reading, but builds joy and self-belief,” says Spencer.

And that’s exactly how it feels as a parent using it — like you’re co-piloting a reading adventure rather than sitting in the dreaded “homework supervisor” seat.

Parent-Tested, Kid-Approved: Our Verdict After Using It

When the Reading Skill Set arrived at our house, my 5-year-old daughter (who usually avoids structured learning like it’s a plate of brussels sprouts) was instantly intrigued. The box looked fun. The materials felt inviting. The cards, tools, and readers didn’t scream “educational toy” — they looked like something you’d find in a really thoughtful playroom.

We started small — just 10-15 minutes a day. Within a week, she was voluntarily asking to “play the letter game again,” sounding out simple words and giggling at her own made-up rhymes. My 2-year-old even joined in (mostly as comic relief).

By the second week, we’d naturally built a daily reading habit without ever calling it a “lesson.”

It wasn’t about performance. It was about connection.

Why This Matters (Especially for Parents Struggling with Screen Time)

Let’s be real — the guilt around screen time is alive and well in parenting circles. But it’s not just about screen vs book — it’s about what those screens might be replacing: conversation, play, storytelling, creativity.

Lovevery’s Reading Skill Set fills that space with something tangible. It’s not an app. It’s not passive. It’s hands-on learning that feels good for both of you. And while no product is magic, this one does something I hadn’t seen before — it makes reading feel cool again.

Behind the Brand: A Chat with Lovevery’s CEO, Jessica Rolph

Co-founder and CEO Jessica Rolph shared her reasons for creating the Reading Skill Set — and why now is such a crucial moment for early literacy.

“As a parent, I wanted to give my children the best start — but I didn’t want to rely on screens or rote learning. We built Lovevery around the idea that play is a child’s brain-building language, and the Reading Skill Set was created with that exact philosophy in mind,” says Jessica.

She adds that modern parenting challenges — especially the rise of screen reliance — are why tools like this are more important than ever.

“We didn’t want parents to feel like they needed a teaching degree to support their child’s literacy. We wanted it to be doable, even joyful — in the little pockets of time we get with our kids each day.”

What’s Inside the Reading Skill Set?

Each stage is tailored to your child’s age and skill level, and includes:

• Phonics-based games and tools
• Letter tiles and sound cards
• Mini books and reading prompts
• Parent guides with clear explanations (no jargon, just helpful tips)
• Interactive activities that spark storytelling and roleplay

Think of it as a literacy coach in a box — with no batteries or Wi-Fi required.

Is It Worth It?

Short answer: yes. Longer answer: If you’re a parent trying to instil a love of reading without the stress, this is one of the best tools we’ve seen.

It’s research-backed. It’s genuinely fun. And it meets kids where they’re at — through play, not pressure.

Plus, it turns those “I don’t want to read!” meltdowns into moments of bonding. And really, isn’t that what we’re all looking for?

Where to Buy

Lovevery’s Reading Skill Set has officially launched in Australia, a beautifully designed, play-based program for kids aged 3 to 7 years. It’s already made waves in the US, with 98% of children showing improvement in just 20 minutes a day. Now it’s landed on Aussie shores — and as a mum who’s tried it, I can confirm: it’s the real deal. Click here to buy.