Guided Reading

How can I as a parent get involved with my child reading?

As the parent of a young reader you are excited for the new and exciting doors that reading will open to your child. When it comes time to take an active role in teaching reading skills to your child all too often you are left feeling overwhelmed, underqualified or just plain out of the reading loop. There is much you can and should do to help, and the good news is it isn't at all complicated.

Talk about the subject

That's right! When your child enters the school system it is time to use your words, often. Talk to your child's teacher and find out what reading program is being used. Chances are, you'll hear about Guided Reading.

Guided reading allows the teacher close interaction with students on similar reading levels. Knowing what are concepts and skills are being taught and which books are being read will allow you to practice with your child at home. The teacher is not the only person you need to communicate with.

Establishing a habit of talking about your child's day will not only build a strong parent/child bond but will bolster reading ability. For greatest success avoid yes or no questions. Studies indicate that youngsters who have meaningful conversations on a regular basis learn new vocabulary, gain confidence and improve reading comprehension.

Kids Book Clubs

Joining or creating a book club with your child can motivate him to read on his own. This will help her practice the skills she is learning in Guided Reading groups at school. It ‘s fun to talk books, people of all ages benefit from experience of sharing a good book with others.

Keep It Fresh

Avoid the boredom pitfall by keeping reading material new and interesting. This is easy to do. Make regular trips to the library. This is especially exciting for your child if they have their own library card.

Let them choose any book they wish, but try to help them find books that are not too far above or below their reading levels. Books that are too easy will not enable your child to progress. Books that are too difficult may plant seeds of frustration. You can help of course with your active participation during reading time at home. If you are there to help decipher more difficult texts, your child is less likely to give up.

A Book a Day

It is important for your child to read on a daily basis. Guided reading together and reading alone alone are both crucial. Encourage your child to read on his own each day. You can set aside 15-30 minutes in your nightly routine to enjoy a book together.

Take turns reading aloud to each other, then have personal reading time. You can do this by turning off the TV and reading on the couch.

A treat for young readers is to let them stay up past lights out to read. They will really think they are cheating bedtime when they get to stay up and read. Make sure to talk about the books your child is reading with your child. Showing your interest and support will make reading come to life. Your child's reading appetite will grow, and so will their ability.