How Can I Help My Struggling Reader?

If reading is a problem for your child, seek help. Reading problems rarely resolve themselves without extra attention and professional assistance. If an elementary teacher tells you your child is struggling with reading, or your child is getting unexpected low grades on reading work, talk to the teacher and pinpoint your child's difficulties and find out where the problem lies. (Example: phonics, speed, or comprehension). Remember, reading is crucial for success in most academic subjects. Below are somethings you can do to help your child if they are having reading difficulties:

1. Find out if there is a reading specialist on staff at the school.

2. Ask the teacher to find out if your child can receive extra time or help during school.

3. Find out what you can do at home for your child.

4. Make sure you know by kindergarten or first grade if your child is having difficulties, because the soon you get intervention the better.

5. It is important to find out your child's reading level.

6. If the reading difficulties continue, ask for your child to be tested for any learning disabilities.

7. Make sure you are reading to your child and listening to your child read on their reading level every school night.

8. Don't get frustrated. If you are, let another family member or friend work with your child.

9. Find something your child is interested in reading about and that will help with getting him/her to read for pleasure.

10. Try to make reading time at home a family event. Make a special time that everyone reads a book aloud together or reads silently and have a discussion on what they read.

For more information and suggested reading list, read my book, "A Parent's Handbook: How to Get the Best Education Possible for Your Child K-6". You can order it on http://www.besteducationpossible.com/ or http://www.amazon.com/ .