LEARNING to read is a monumental milestone in any child's life and one Warwick woman is fortunate to watch and encourage young students master the skill.

Former special education teacher and guidance officer Michele Slater has taken on the challenge of helping kids learn to read, volunteering as part of the Ready Readers program.

The program uses trained volunteers to assist children with their reading and engage with them to build their confidence and enjoyment of reading.

Mrs Slater said she jumped aboard the program after retirement, to help children read.

The grandmother of four requested to do her volunteer work at Warwick Central State School - where she had worked at as a guidance officer for 10 years.

"Reading is really important because if you can't read, it closes a lot of doors for you," she said.

The program is designed around one-on-one interaction and while Mrs Slater said each child progresses differently, it was important to form a connection with the students.

"Some become chatty and you form a bond with the child," she said.

"It builds their confidence when you're helping them in a positive way."

Mrs Slater encourages other people to have a go at helping kids learn to read as it is a great way to give back to the community.

"It is just about getting through to the kids that reading is fun."

If you would like more information on becoming a Ready Reader, ph 3002 7600 or visit www.volunteeringqld.org.au/home/index.php/volunteers/ready-readers.