THE RHYTHM FOR READING ONLINE CPD BLOG

A positive relationship exists between sensitivity to rhythm & progress in reading.

Beyond phonics: Why rhythm may be the missing piece in reading development

Dr Marion Long

Published on: 22/03/2026

Some children receive strong phonics teaching but still don’t read fluently. Research shows the missing link may be in auditory processing. Discover how rhythm-based intervention builds the bridge to fluency.

reading fluency interventionrhythm and readingrhythm and rhymerhythm-based reading interventionworking memory and reading fluencyadaptive teachinginclusive reading intervention

If they know the sounds, why doesn't their reading flow?

Dr Marion Long

Published on: 16/03/2026

Children who know their sounds but don’t read fluently need more than phonics. Rhythm-based learning bridges the gap between decoding and fluency.

reading for pleasurephonics and fluencyphonemic awarenessrhythm-based reading interventionreading fluency

Building inclusive schools: How rhythm-based learning strengthens reading fluency and belonging.

Dr Marion Long

Published on: 03/11/2025

Discover how rhythm-based learning can strengthen reading fluency, regulation and belonging in inclusive schools, making the curriculum accessible to all.

inclusive practicesfluencybelongingrhythm-based learningrhythm-based reading intervention

Rhythm and Reading: Strengthening Executive Functions and Fluency in Every Classroom

Dr Marion Long

Published on: 13/10/2025

Discover how rhythm strengthens reading fluency, executive functions, and phonemic awareness. Learn why rhythm-based CPD helps teachers support inclusion and confidence through previously researched professional learning.

improving reading fluencyimproving reading comprehensionsupporting working memoryrhythm-based reading intervention

Marion Long PhD

Dr Marion Long is the founder of Rhythm for Reading and the creator of Rhythm for Reading Online CPD for teachers supporting lower-attaining readers. Her doctorate at UCL Institute of Education investigated the effects of a rhythm-based music intervention on children's reading behaviour. If you would like to discuss having Rhythm for Reading in your school, please visit the bookings page and select the most convenient date and time.

How rhythm defines

phonemic awareness

“It’s only an hour that they have with you over the time that you come in over the six weeks and for it to be able to make, for a lot of them, up to a year’s difference in their reading ability is quite amazing really.” Year 3 teacher

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