How to Help Children Read Fluently

Help children become strong readers.

Literacy is the foundation for academic success. Toddlers begin to learn letters and words so that one day they can put the words together in reading. As children grow older, they read faster and with expression. Instead of reading word-by-word, children should be able to read fluently and with understanding. This is a practiced and learned skill that parents and teachers can help children master.

Instructions

How to Help Children Read Fluently

1. Help children create an appreciation for words. Reading-Rockets.org suggests helping children read fluently by creating an appreciation of words and books. Children should understand the importance of reading in everyday life. Share personal stories about when reading was essential for you to overcome a difficult situation like being lost in an airport. Children will understand how learning to read fluently helps in everyday communication.

2. Teach children the alphabet. After children understand why they should read, they must begin with each individual letter. A successful way to teach the alphabet to children is to have them identify each letter in a book, poster or sign. This allows children to recognize the letters visually and associate them with reading.

3. Utilize comprehension strategies to increase fluency. Some comprehension strategies include finding the table of contents and chapter headings to identify the type of text. Children will also read more fluently and with a proper pace if there are captions below pictures to increase understanding.

4. Encourage children to read age-appropriate books. Children can practice reading on their own to increase fluency. Books should be age appropriate so the child does not become frustrated by big words or concepts that are difficult to understand. Offer prizes or awards to encourage children to keep reading.

5. Listen to children read aloud. Parents and teachers play an active role in helping children read fluently. Have the child read aloud and pay attention to his phrasing of sentences. This indicates how well he understands what is being read. Provide positive criticism for him to learn fluency. When children read aloud, they hear how words sound individually and collectively to enhance fluency.

Tips & Warnings

• Be patient with children who may learn slowly. Be careful not to discourage the child by showing frustration.

References

• Reading Rockets: Learning to Read, Reading to Learn
• PBS Parents: Reading Milestones