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Step 1
Read WITH your child if he is having problems comprehending what he reads. Even if they are old enough to read to themselves, take 20 minutes each day to read homework assignments or a book they are interested in. Read to them first so they can hear how you emphasize words and lines. Sometimes children are concentrating so hard on reading they forget to use their tone and everything sounds monotone. Even when we are reading to ourselves we read with emotion. Then let them take a turn. Do this as often as possible. I don’t care if they are in 1st grade or 10th grade, read with your child who is struggling. If this means reading a wrestling or beauty magazine, then do it.
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Step 2
Help your child see the picture of what he is reading in his head. You may not want to do this every time you read with your child, but several times a week, read something in the book and then share with your child what you picture in your head. When it is their turn to read have them stop when they get to a description of a character or place. Ask them to tell you what they picture in their heads. Have them see the blue fish with a red mustache if that is what the sentence describes. You may not realize how often you have the images going through your mind as you read. This helps you to remember what you have read and also makes the story more interesting.
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Step 3
Try any reading programs you can find. This can get very expensive so it is important to network with other parents with similar concerns. Each of you can purchase a program to try. Later, swap with the other parents. Some programs available are Earobics and FastForWord which are done with your computer. There are also programs to help you with phonics such as The Phonics Game and Hooked on Phonics. Check with your school or library to see if they are available to borrow. Try a program even if it did not work for your friend’s child because every child is different. My child loved the Phonics Game, but hated Earobics. However, Earobics would be more helpful for a kid who enjoys being on the computer. Some schools have these programs available for children to use when they have extra time. Others you may find cheaper at online action sites.
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Step 4
Don’t forget the old fashioned tutor. If you do not have the patients to help your child then find someone who does. This could be a paid tutor, a grandparent or a retired teacher who lives next door. It can be very difficult the listen to a child who does not read well every day. Don’t let it get to the point that he is dreading to be with you or you are both in tears every time you work together.
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Step 5
Make sure your child continues to read in the summer. Arrange for them to meet with a tutor, get involved with library programs or let them find a subject they are interested in and buy a suitable magazine.
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Step 6
I do not like the special summer reading programs many schools offer. The students are forced to read books approved by the schools over the summer based on their reading level. Unfortunately, the books on those list are very dull making them painful to read. If you are helping your child read them, you will want to curl up in the fetal position and rock until it is over. You can only imagine how your child feels!!! If your child has to participate in such a program, go to the teacher and explain the situation. If your child has to choose three books from a list and one they have to read to discuss in class the next school year ask the teacher to modify their program. Offer to have your child read the one book which will be discussed, and three other books of something your child is more interested in at their reading level. These summer reading programs can kill a student’s interest in reading over the summer. I have countless books my children have picked out to read, but never had the chance. They have to keep up with required reading during the school year and the summer program during the summer. If your child is a slow reading they will never find the time to read something they enjoy. Not every teacher will work with you, but it is worth a try to help instill the love of reading to your child.
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Step 7
Keep the faith and remember you are not alone. Most parents do not like to advertise when there child is struggling in school. Once again, they are not lazy or dumb, their minds just work differently. Mention to your friends your dilemma and you will be shocked to find out how many have the same problems. Ask the Guidance Counselor to give your name to other parents whose children have similar problems. You can then swap ideas or reading programs.
Comments
mazong said
on 11/12/2009 M grandson is in kindergarden and we needed this very good article..Thx! 5*
debstips said
on 8/13/2009 Terrific article!One of the most important thing a parent can do is read to your child and read with your child once they learn to read.
IcyCucky said
on 7/1/2009 Wonderful, wonderful info for parents to help with their children in reading and in understanding!
rewrite810 said
on 2/2/2009 Great tips...we love reading around here! :) Thanks 5*
ginafur said
on 1/31/2009 Great tips. As a teacher, I must come to the defense of the summer reading book list. Many times, teachers do not get to pick what books they would like for the children to read. Someone higher up usually has the say. Very helpful article, 5*.