Whole language takes the approach of teaching reading in the context of literature. A child learns to enjoy and appreciate reading by reading books and writing his own stories. Traditional whole language programs put an early emphasis on learning to recognize words, so that the child can make rapid early progress in reading, and experience for themselves the pleasure and pride of achievement in reading by themselves. But while some children thrive in whole language programs, others don't do as well. The other advantage of using both methods is that different children have different learning styles.
Some children learn best initially by one method, while others favor the other method.
Once you understand the theories, you can begin to take practical steps to help your child learn to read. But before you begin, you should ask yourself why you want to work with the child on reading. Your child is behind where he should be at this age and needs extra help. Your child is ahead of his class and wants to learn more than is taught in class. Your child's teacher uses only phonics or whole language and you want to supplement with some work on the other for balance.