Frequently asked questions

What is Learning to Read - Back to Basics?

It's a complete, systematic phonics program I wrote for my own children when I realised school wasn't teaching them to read properly. Phonics — learning the letter-sound code — is the method that actually works, and it's what this entire program is built on. Every book, every word deck, every reader is designed to take a child step by step from the very beginning through to confident, independent reading.

Who is this for?

Any child who is learning to read, or who is struggling with reading despite having been "taught" at school. The program works for:

• Children just starting out (typically 4–7 years old)

• Older children who slipped through the cracks and are behind

• Children who were taught with sight words or whole-language methods and are now confused

• Homeschooling families who want a complete, structured program they can follow at home

Where do I start?

Start with Level 1A — Learning to Read 1A is the entry point for the whole program. It doesn't matter how old your child is or whether they already know a few letters. 1A covers the foundations, and without those foundations the rest of the program won't make sense. Many parents of older struggling readers are surprised how quickly their child moves through 1A once the method clicks.

How many levels are there?

The program currently has six complete levels: 1A, 1B, 1C, 2, 3, and 4. Level 5 is currently being finalised. Each level contains a main Learning to Read book, word decks, decodable readers, and drill books. You can purchase individual titles or complete level packages.

Purchasing & Delivery

What exactly do I receive when I buy?

You receive a PDF file — a digital download you can open immediately on any device. There are no physical books to wait for. As soon as your payment is processed, you'll receive a download link.

How do I get my download?

After checkout you'll receive a download link by email. Click the link to download your PDF. If you don't see the email within a few minutes, please check your spam or junk folder.

What devices can I use the PDFs on?

Any device that can open a PDF — tablet, iPad, laptop, desktop computer, or phone. Most parents find a tablet or iPad works best for children. You can also print the files at home (see below).

Can I print the PDFs?

Yes. The PDFs are designed to be printed at home on standard A4 paper. Many families print the word decks and readers so children can hold them and handle them physically — which works really well for younger learners.

Can I share the files with family members?

You're welcome to use the files across your own household and devices. The files are for personal/family use and are not for sharing outside your household or for resale.

Payments & Security

Is it safe to pay on your website?

Yes. All payments are processed securely through Stripe, one of the world's leading payment platforms. We never see or store your card details. Stripe uses bank-level encryption.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit and debit cards via Stripe.

Do you charge GST?

Yes, GST is included in all displayed prices for Australian customers.

If Something Goes Wrong

I didn't receive my download link — what do I do?

First, check your spam or junk folder. If it's not there, please email us at info@affinitypress.com.au with your order details and we'll get it sorted for you straight away.

What is your refund policy?

Because these are digital downloads that are available immediately upon purchase, we're unable to offer refunds once a file has been downloaded. If you have a technical problem with your file or you believe you ordered the wrong product, please contact us at info@affinitypress.com.au and we'll do our best to help.

About the Method

Why phonics? Didn't schools already teach this?

This is the question at the heart of everything. For most of the 20th century, schools largely abandoned systematic phonics in favour of methods like whole-language and sight-word memorisation. The results have been quietly devastating for literacy rates — and most parents don't realise this is why their child is struggling.

Phonics works because English is a code. The letters represent sounds. Once a child understands the code, they can decode any word — they're not just memorising shapes. This program teaches the code, step by step, from the very beginning.

Can I use this alongside what my child is doing at school?

Yes. Many families use this program to fill the gaps left by school — particularly if their child is struggling or behind. The program works alongside any school curriculum. You don't need to wait for school to "catch up" — you can start building solid foundations at home right now.

Still Have Questions?

We'd love to hear from you.

📧 info@affinitypress.com.au 📞 +61 401 115 358