Back in the late 40s, kindergartners were not expected to learn to read, but to learn their ABCs, colors, etc. as well as how to follow instructions and get along with others in a large group.
In first grade, we learned to write cursive and read printing at the same time. Perhaps it is something like learning more than one language at the same time in a home where, for example, mom speaks English and grandma speaks Italian I was never actually given any instruction in printing.
I was lucky. My mother read to me a lot, and I learned to read before I entered Kindergarten in 1952. She instilled in me the love of reading, and at 78, I’m still at it. I usually have four paper and hardback books that I set aside time in the afternoon to read at least 20 pages each from, and then I have about 3-4 on my Kindle that I read from at bedtime before I turn out the light.