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Reading at home is crucial for children of all ages.
But did you know that children's books should be at a somewhat lower level than what they are reading in class?
It's supposed to be a fun experience for both parents and their kids. Stress-free!
If your youngster gets stuck on every other word, the book is too difficult for them. This can be frustrating for both you and your child, and it is not a great experience for them.
If this is the case, we recommend switching to an easier book and additionally speaking with their teacher about their individual needs that might speed up the reading process.
At Happy Lemon Tutors we encourage parents to be involved in their kids' learning journey and have summarized the basics for you.
Continue reading to learn what you can do to help your child in the comfort of your own home.
Getting Started
Before you begin reading, ask your child these questions to get them thinking about what the book might be about:
Are you able to read the title?
What do you think this book is about? Why?
Is this a story or a book of facts? Why?
Make it a Happy Habit
Find a quiet, comfortable area where you and your child can read together. We understand how difficult this might be if you have other children.
It's all about figuring out when the best moment is for you and your child. It could be right before bedtime or first thing in the morning. Follow your instincts!
Make it Fun
Reading should be fun for both you and your child.
It will rub off on them if you are frustrated with them. If they are having trouble or are weary, have them read a page apiece.
Make them follow you around and make stupid blunders!
Your kids will delight in correcting you. So put on some big-nosed glasses and read the book together!
Instead of Telling Them, Lead Them
If you tell your child every time they get stopped on a word, they will not learn to use the reading methods they are learning at school and will expect you to tell them. This will not assist them in developing and growing as readers.
Here are some basic reading skills that your child might have learned in school:
Using the pictures to guide them
Practicing the first sound of the word and preparing their mouth for it
Stretching out the words, for example –'sh-ou-ted.'
Seeing pieces of words or tiny words within a larger word, such as ‘shout' or 'out' for shouted
Finally, encourage them to read to the end of the sentence to get a better understanding of what is being said.
Understanding is Key
When they have completed the book, check their understanding by asking a few questions.
Comprehension is an important part of learning to read for your child. Parents frequently listen to the home reader before marking it as completed.
Making it a practice to ask some questions at the end of each chapter will aid your child's comprehension.
You don't have to ask challenging questions; here are a few suggestions:
What did this story teach you?
What part of the book was your favorite and why?
What were your thoughts after reading that story?
What was your favorite character, and why?
Happy reading from us at Happy Lemon Tutors!
This article was written by our Native English Teacher, Miss Ilse.