There are certain kids who will having an easy time learning to read (and will come to it early) no matter what method is used to teach them. One of my three children falls into this category. As much as I would like to take credit as a homeschooling mom for her abilities, it doesn't really have very much to do with me. The same may be true for your child; it may not say much for educational fads and methods today.
We read to her every night - one bible story and two story books. Reading her Wind in the Willows right now.
She has issues - she can read and write BACKWARDS as easily as forwards...and gets them mixed up! Very disconcerting...
Also she refuses to let us teach her - has to be a school a teacher.