How is my child doing in class? Are they missing any assignments? As a reading interventionist, I get these questions a lot from parents. So often, in fact, that I’ve crafted a well thought out response designed to catch them off guard and give them a challenge: No, but if you’re up for it, I have an assignment for YOU. Would you like to learn how you can support your child’s reading at home?
How to support your child’s reading
Reading is the most important skill your child needs for academic success. In ELA and social studies, students read and discuss essential stories and histories. In science and math, students solve calculations by reading and interpreting complex word problems. You can help teachers enrich your child’s education by trying these techniques for supporting your child’s reading at home:
1. Ask your child to read to you.
Ask your child to read to you for 10-15 minutes each day. Set aside a specific time for reading (after dinner, before bed, etc.), and have your child read a favorite book or story to you. Better yet, include the whole family and make it a fun, educational routine for bringing everyone together.
2. Have them read everything.
When you’re at the store, ask your child to read food labels and price tags to you. When you’re on the road, ask them to read street signs and bumper stickers. Point to signs, labels, and other materials everywhere you go, and ask your child to read everything.
3. Be a reading role model.
Let your child see you reading. Talk about books, share your enthusiasm for reading, and read to them. Children learn quickly from the habits taught at home, so teach your child the value of reading by being an example.
Final words
Becoming more involved in your child’s education can be as simple as supporting their reading at home. Following these simple suggestions and watch your child grow into a competent and accomplished reader. To learn more, read our article on the Top 5 Online Reading Programs for Struggling Readers.
