The Value of Using Multiple Mediums in Early Reading Education

As education leaders, you are constantly striving to provide classroom teachers with the resources they need to best support their students’ learning, especially in key subjects like literacy. Although it might feel as though you need to choose between digital or print resources, this is a false divide. In fact, a well-rounded approach that blends both print-based materials and online game-based learning can enhance early literacy development in significant ways. This multi-medium learning strategy taps into the varied strengths of each channel, leading to richer learning experiences and better outcomes for young learners. 

• Print-based instruction supports whole or small group teaching through physical books, worksheets, and writing exercises. These resources help children develop fine motor skills, visual recognition, and comprehension. Turning the pages of a book or writing with a pencil strengthens memory and aids in phonemic awareness, letter recognition, and vocabulary acquisition—critical foundations for literacy growth.
• Digital game-based learning engages children with interactive features, animations, and audio-visual elements. Research shows that game-based platforms tap into children’s intrinsic motivation, keeping them engaged longer. Digital tools also offer personalized learning experiences, adapting to each child’s pace, while providing immediate data on progress and areas needing improvement. This helps educators tailor instruction to meet individual needs.

Combining print and digital resources creates a more effective learning experience. Print materials build essential literacy skills, while digital games bring those skills to life in fun, memorable ways. Together, they offer a balanced strategy that fosters not only literacy skills but also a love for reading and learning.

At Hatch Early Learning, we’ve embedded this concept into our literacy products:

• Ignite by Hatch™ delivers game-based literacy learning tailored to each child’s needs, blending research-backed pedagogy with playful learning experiences that provide immediate progress data to educators.
• Key Foundations by Hatch™ deepens this learning with print-based activities that align with early literacy milestones.
• Our newest product, The Code is The Key by Hatch™, expands on these foundations by combining both print and digital instruction to unlock literacy in a way that is accessible, engaging, and effective for early learners. Together, these products offer a holistic approach that ensures children develop a strong literacy foundation, ready to tackle the challenges of future learning.

Multi-medium learning isn’t just a trend—it’s the key to building confident, capable readers for the future. Learn more.