How to Help Your Developing Reader

As the student in your family develops his/her skills in reading here are some ideas that might make the ride a little smoother.

Try not to worry. It’s okay if your student…

· Still sounds choppy when reading aloud. Rereading can help smooth it out.

· Makes spelling mistakes. Spelling patterns take time to learn.

· Reads books that may seem too easy. Your student is building confidence as well as skills.

What you can do…

· When your student reads aloud, help him/her catch and correct mistakes by asking guiding questions such as, “Does that word really make sense here? What letter does the word start with?” or “What do you think it could be?”

· Talk about the books you read together, and also about the books your student is reading alone.

· Read aloud together. Developing readers can read some books alone, but you can share books together that will challenge their thinking and build their vocabulary.

· Have your student read aloud to others, a younger sibling or child. It will be good practice, a chance to show off skills and an inspiration for the younger listener.

-- taken from “Read me a Story” a Reading Checkup Guide