Reading is a vital part of all aspects of learning. The better a student reads, the easier time that student has understanding directions for an assignment; the easier it will be for that student to complete the assigned work; and the easier it will be for that student to complete an essay in any subject area.
These skills continue well after the student graduates, and they become necessary to fill out a job application or follow directions in an emergency situation.
While some students read with ease, others are struggling. This adds pressure, because many education experts say reading well by grade three ensures a student has a solid foundation of literacy skills to expand their understandings of what they read, make meaning and transfer that learning across all subject areas.
Teachers are able to help, but parents can also help turn the tide if their child is struggling with reading.
Following are tips parents can use to help improve their child’s reading skills.
Set aside a regular time to read every day. Early mornings are a great time of day to practice on improving reading and concentration. If mornings are too hectic, scheduling the time to practice helps make it easier to commit to.
Read out loud. Studies show regularly reading out loud to children will produce significant gains in reading comprehension, vocabulary and the decoding of words. Whether your children are preschoolers or preteens, it will increase their desire to read independently. Getting books on tape can also help readers listen to words and phrases and reading rhythms.
Set the reading environment. Physical posture and environment influence the ability to take in information. This may be key for students who feel negative about reading. Where possible, read or study in natural daylight. When reading with artificial light, try and have the light source come from over the shoulder. Prop up books to reduce eyestrain. A good book is great as a way to unwind and relax, but avoid reading difficult material in bed or material that requires detailed comprehension and processing. Read this type of material at a desk.
Surround children with reading material. Children with a large array of reading materials in their homes score higher on standardized tests. Tempt your kids to read by having a large supply of appealing books and magazines at their reading level. Put the reading materials in cars, bathrooms, bedrooms, family rooms and even by the TV.
Encourage a wide variety of reading activities. Have them read menus, roadside signs, game directions, weather reports, movie time listings and other practical everyday information. Use textbooks, computer programs, books-on-tape and other materials available in stores. Games are especially good choices, because they let children have fun as they work on their skills. Also, make sure they always have something to read in their spare time.
Develop a library habit. Entice your children to read more by taking them to the library every few weeks to get new reading materials. Find your local Indianapolis Public Library branch at IndyPL.org.
Pick up your favorite reading material. Seeing you read will inspire your children to read. Just 15 minutes of daily practice is sufficient to increase their reading fluency.
Be knowledgeable about your child’s progress. Find out what reading skills they are expected to have at each grade level. The school’s curriculum will give you this information. Track their progress in acquiring basic reading skills on report cards and standardized tests. Get help from the student’s teacher or a tutor if necessary.
Look for other problems. Check to see if hearing, eyesight or speech problems are the culprit of low reading skills.
Show enthusiasm for your children’s reading. Your reaction has a great influence on how hard they will try to become good readers. Be sure to give them genuine praise for their efforts.
Source: FamilyEducation.com; MyREadSpeed.com; PickTheBrain.com.
