Hi, I’m Rachel – a mom of three creative young heroes and co-founder of Acton Academy Omaha. Over the past seven years, I’ve walked the reading journey with my own kids, and I’ve seen each of them learn to read in their own unique way and on their own timeline. If you’re feeling worried, I want you to know – it’s going to be okay. When you step into the role of a trusting, supportive coach for your child, you’re giving them a gift that goes far beyond reading. You’re helping them grow confidence and independence that will serve them for a lifetime.
“What if my child isn’t reading yet?”
It’s a common question heard at Acton Academies around the world.
In a culture shaped by an outdated educational model – where the primary focus is on “learning to know” – Acton comes from a completely different mindset. Instead of preparing young heroes for the world as it is, we are preparing them for the world that is coming. As AI continues to reshape the future, the qualities children need to thrive are shifting, too.
At Acton, we focus on helping children become adaptable creators, courageous leaders, and conscious collaborators – humans who know how to learn, build, and care. In other words, humans AI can’t replace.
Even before a child learns to read, they’re developing the foundational skills of agency and self-management. They’re learning to take ownership of their choices, discover internal motivation, and engage with life through a growth mindset. They’re practicing how to accept feedback, hold themselves and others accountable, speak with courage, and resolve conflict with respect. They’re learning to stay curious – and to keep going when things get hard.
This is the true work of becoming. It’s a longer, often winding path – and one that leads to breathtaking views. Families choose Acton because it holds space for deep transformation – and this takes time. Along the way, children discover purpose, personal agency, and a creator’s mindset. They learn to use challenges as fuel to uncover their unique calling and serve the world with confidence.
And the reading?
It will come.
Research shows that reading develops on a wide spectrum – some children are ready at 4, others at 8 or 9. What matters most is that your child’s timeline is honored. At Acton, they’re given space to tune inward and take on challenges when they’re truly ready – without shame.
When reading clicks – and it will – it comes from confidence, not pressure. That kind of learning sticks. It creates not only strong readers, but lifelong learners who are curious, motivated, and empowered.
This is true agency. This is true learning.
