Few people are able to have an impact that changes how kids see learning in the rapidly changing field of education. One of those infrequent changemakers is Elizabeth Alexander. She is the creator of The Alexander Reading Method, which is taught through her tutoring company, Reading in Preschool. The method can also be used by schools and homeschooling families, and the company offers a complete line of books and educational products designed to teach this innovative system—turning reading into an engaging and self-empowering experience for kids.
“Reading should feel like play—not pressure.”
Sitting down with Women’s Lifestyle Magazine, Elizabeth Alexander radiates warmth and passion as she describes her mission. “For me, literacy is not just about decoding words,” she begins. “It’s about helping children build confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love for learning. Reading should feel like play—not pressure.”
Her signature Alexander Reading Method has become a standout in early education. Built on a phonics-based foundation, the program is divided into five levels that introduce reading through engaging, age-appropriate activities. “Every child learns differently,” she explains. “So, we use what excites them—whether that’s stories, music, or movement—to spark interest. Once they enjoy learning, progress follows naturally.”
The results speak for themselves. The method has been especially effective for first and second graders, giving them not only strong literacy skills but also newfound confidence that carries into every area of their education.
From Passion to Purpose: The Birth of Reading in Preschool
Elizabeth’s journey began with encouragement from families who saw her natural ability to connect with children. “People kept telling me I had something special—that I made learning fun,” she recalls with a smile. “Eventually, I decided to take that leap and create something of my own.”
That leap became Reading in Preschool, a premier early education company now operating across four U.S. states. But success didn’t come easily.
“When I first started, many people didn’t believe young children could actually learn to read through play,” she admits. “And then, the same year I launched my company, I was diagnosed with a chronic illness.”
It was a double challenge—navigating skepticism while managing her health. To make matters worse, someone she trusted tried to take advantage of the situation. “That was a hard lesson,” she says thoughtfully. “But it also taught me patience, resilience, and the importance of slowing down. I refused to give up because I knew the work mattered.”
Changing the Landscape of Early Literacy
Over the years, word of mouth began to spread. Parents started noticing the remarkable difference in their children’s reading ability—and confidence. What started as a small tutoring venture grew into a thriving educational network employing over 35 passionate instructors and helping more than 500 students rise to the top of their classes by second grade.
“I think my success comes from understanding what children need emotionally as much as academically,” Elizabeth says. “When a child feels seen, supported, and celebrated, that’s when learning truly happens.”
A Voice for Change
Elizabeth’s mission extends far beyond her own tutoring company. She wants to inspire education leaders across the U.S. to reimagine early literacy. “The literacy scores in America have been far too low for far too long,” she explains. “We need to shift our focus to the formative years, where confidence and curiosity are born. That’s where transformation begins.”
Through Reading in Preschool and her signature teaching method, Elizabeth is proving that learning doesn’t have to be rigid or stressful. “When children are having fun, they’re learning faster than we realize,” she says. “Play is powerful.”
Looking Ahead
Today, Elizabeth Alexander continues to expand her reach and refine her method, ensuring more children have access to her innovative approach. Her company has developed a line of early educational materials that follow the Alexander Reading Method. These materials are used alongside a variety of games and activities to keep the learning process play-based and joyful.
Her dream? To see a generation of readers who not only excel in school but also carry a love of learning throughout their lives.
“I’ve learned that passion and purpose can overcome any obstacle,” she reflects. “Every child deserves to experience the joy of reading—and every page they turn should make them feel capable and proud.”
As her work continues to touch lives across the country, one thing is clear: Elizabeth Alexander isn’t just teaching children to read—she’s teaching them to believe in themselves, one story at a time.
