My Child Can't Read!

Every child can learn to read. I mean, EVERY CHILD CAN LEARN TO READ. How is that accomplished? In different ways but basically in a one-on-one setting with one teacher and one child sitting next to each other or looking at each other across a table. That means your child will not improve noticeably in a classroom.

If you are interested in helping your child yourself, jump right in! These are the guidelines:

1) The time and experience must be pleasant, even fun.

2) You must find books that your child can read either from your child's teacher, the library, or a store. Too easy is better than too hard. Your child will read these books to you.

3) Your job is to listen carefully, to tell your child a word he or she doesn't know (do NOT insist on sounding it out), and to enjoy each book. Laugh at the funny parts, question what might happen in the suspenseful parts, be appalled with your child when a character does something outrageous. Your goal is to get your child involved in the story much like children become absorbed in television shows or movies.

4) Keep a list of the words your child can not read or does not understand the meaning of in the story. Go back to these words several times in the next days, asking for meaning or simply for memorization of the word. You do not care about spelling at this point. It is all about reading.

5) Enjoy this time together. Your child will, for the most part, enjoy it in relation to how much you enjoy it. Don't expect your child to love it at first. Just work towards that goal. Make sure YOU have fun with reading together.

6) Be patient and positive. Learning to read takes time.

Jodi Heaton Hurst