By Michelle Carlin – Mum to Fynnian, Owen, Saoirse and Aoife.

Since about the age of three and half, my eldest has been starting to read words. Six months ago at the old, ripe age of four he started to ask to be taught properly how to put his ABC's together. And just like every other mother out there, I want the best for my child.

If he wants to learn how to read a good eighteen months before he is supposed to start formal schooling, well... A little head-start to keep him going won't hurt him. And like every other mother out there I wanted to teach him knowing that he is learning properly and enjoying the time we were spending together so that even if he only learned just a little it would be a worthwhile venture. And like every other mother I needed something that we could do together for as short or as long as we wanted... Did I mention I have four children? Under the age of four? Okay, so I might not be like every other mother out there... But I did want something that I could involve at least two of my younger ones.

So, I log onto good old Google, hoping that I will find something that I could start with my eldest. Something called Reading Eggs came up on the search. Okay... Reading Eggs? I clicked onto the link and we have NEVER looked back!

Reading Eggs is a fully comprehensive reading program designed for 4-7 year olds using the most up-to-date research on how children learn how to read. For a rather low (in my opinion) subscription of less than $2 a week, your child can access online an amazing, fun and engaging learning experience. This program from the television ABC channel ‘has been developed by a highly experienced team of educational teachers, writers and developers.

The ABC Reading Eggs program focuses on a core reading curriculum of phonics and sight words using skills and strategies essential for sustained reading success. It completely supports what children learn at school and will help to improve your child's results at school, (www.readingeggs.com).' Children learn how to read through interactive animations, songs, games and rewards.

Older children who can already read can use the Reading Eggs World where they can focus on reading fluently, comprehension, expanding their vocabulary and writing skills with games and the creative story writing factory. For children who have already started to read they can answer a quiz so they can be properly placed according to their knowledge and level. The levels can be repeated as many times as needed or wanted.

There is now ABC Reading Eggs Book Packs and activity books that can be bought to coincide with this fantastic program. These packs include the real books, progress posters and stickers. It is amazing that from the initial goal of getting at least 20,000 children to start reading, this program has now been exposed to over 100,000 children since the 2008 Great Literacy Challenge.

Yes, fellow parents, this online reading program is now being used in the schools! And if you are still unsure but a little curious any new member can trial this subscription for 14 days FREE. It is plenty of time for your child and you to have a great look around. By, the end of the first week, we knew we wanted to give our children this learning experience. It really is a lot of fun. I love and look forward to sitting down with my now 4 ½ year old, 3 ½ year old and 2 ½ year old to enjoy this program. I am sure it won't be long before my 8 month old wants to join in all the singing, dancing and learning fun! Just log onto www.readingeggs.com and register for a free 14 day trail.