Mrs. Strafford's BlogFirst Grade is fun!

Parents often ask me what they can do to help with their child’s reading. The very best thing is to spend time LISTENING to your child read. At this early age, students need support with their reading. It’s as easy as 1-2-3!

#1 ¬†Set the Stage – There are many factors that help a reading session go smoothly. First, get into a routine with a practice time that isn’t too late because your child will be overtired. Right before bed is NOT the best time to expect your child to perform a new and complex skill like reading. However, it is the perfect time to read aloud to your child and help him/her relax before sleeping. Next, get away from distractions. Move away from the T.V. set or turn it off. Then check the book selection. Is the book at the right level for your child? If your child is making five or more errors on a page, that book is probably too difficult and will only add to your child’s frustration.With library books and other more difficult texts, offer to share the reading or make them read alouds.

#2¬†¬†Offer Support – As your child reads, practice listening. This is harder than it sounds! Try NOT to offer too much help because we want your first grader to become an independent reader and that’s not possible when well-meaning listeners are constantly correcting errors and providing words. If your child looks to you for help, throw the ball back into his/her court and ask, “What are you going to try?” If your child has tried a few strategies (checked the picture clue, reread) and still can’t get it, then it is appropriate to provide the word for your child. I can always tell when a child is accustomed to reading with a helper that provides every needed word. The child is always looking at me for confirmation and help. Encourage your child to keep his/her eyes on the words and you provide suggestions of things to try.

#3 Praise Finish the reading session on a positive note. Provide praise, and a big hug or pat on the back for a job well done. You can even remind your child of a successful reading strategy by bringing it up again at the end of your session: “I like the way you checked the picture clues and made sure that what you read made sense.” Most children are motivated simply by your attention and praise.