How to Help Your Struggling Reader at Home
It can be challenging to know where to start when it comes to helping your struggling reader at home. As a parent, you want to provide the best support possible, but it's not always clear what strategies will be most effective. In this blog, we will explore practical tips and techniques that can make a significant difference in your child's reading progress. By implementing these strategies, you can create a nurturing environment that fosters a love for reading and empowers your child to overcome their learning difficulties.
All Reading Counts!
Many well-meaning teachers emphasize the importance of kids picking books at their level. While it is important for kids to experience reading at their independent level, it is more important for kids to develop a love of reading! This is very hard for struggling readers to do. So, it is okay for your child to read lower level books at home if they can do so happily and with ease. Some teachers emphasize the importance of reading quality children's literature. The classics are great, but it is okay if your child wants to read graphic novels like Captain Underpants. For struggling readers, the most important thing is that they develop positive feelings about reading and, over time, a love of literature will come!
You Are Never Too Old for Read Aloud!
You can continue reading aloud to your child regardless of age. Find a book that you are both interested in. Re-read the classics or books that you loved as a child. Listening to stories is a great way for all kids to develop vocabulary and background knowledge. This is especially true for struggling readers who miss out on benefits of wide reading because they cannot read well on their own.
Ear Reading is Real Reading!
When you can't read aloud to your child, audio books a great option that they can listen to independently. Audio books are a great option for struggling readers, especially for getting those 20 minutes of independent reading time in per night. Audio books allow kids to focus on comprehending the text without having to struggle with decoding the words. You can get audio books from your library, Audible, or from providers just for individuals with print based learning disabilities like Learning Ally or Bookshare. Student can follow along with the text while they listen, or they can just listen. There is no special benefit to reading along with your eyes, but some students find it helps them stay focused on what they are hearing.
Fill Your Home with Decodable Stories
Fill your home with decodable stories that your child can read independently. Your child's teacher could suggest decodables that go along with the phonics scope and sequence at your child's school. You might also check out Bob Books, the Acorn or Branches series from Scholastic, or Simple Words chapter books. These are books that contain words that your child can sound out. They are essential for improving word level reading and they will help build your child's confidence.
Praise Progress!
When your child makes an error while reading, it's important to focus on praising their progress rather than dwelling on mistakes. Instead of pointing out the incorrect word, acknowledge something they got right and provide gentle guidance. For example, you might say, "You got the vowel sound correct, but let's try the last letter again." By emphasizing their successes, you can boost their confidence and motivation to continue improving.
Trust Your Gut!
Trust your gut! If you think your child is too tired or frustrated to benefit from a homework assignment, give him the rest of the night off and contact your child's teacher about the situation. You can also read the assignment to him or scribe his answer to speed up the process. You are your child's biggest advocate. It is important to monitor his frustration level. It is okay to step in when you feel it would benefit your child, as long as you stay in close communication with your child's teacher.
Remember, you are your child's biggest advocate, and your support plays an essential role in their reading journey. By incorporating these strategies into your routine, you'll be providing your struggling reader with a nurturing and encouraging environment where their love for reading can flourish. Together, we can help them overcome challenges and discover the joy of storytelling.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to our team at Read Write Learning Center. We're here to support you every step of the way!
