If your child is struggling to read, there are many different routes you can take to help them out. Whether you are leaning towards a full-blown tutor or simply adding more reading into their day, there is a way to help them succeed!
Figuring Out the Challenges
First and foremost, finding out exactly where your child is struggling with their reading can better help you in assisting them. Do they get distracted or bored easily and stop reading? Is the information too complicated for them to understand? Do they think they do not know what they are reading when they are actually comprehending the information? If your child is in a traditional school, chances are the teacher has reached out to you in regards to their reading and comprehension. If this is the case, they may already have some insight into what they think is the issue. Your kid’s teacher may be noticing their lack of attention or problem areas during class, and can let you know what is going on.
If you are homeschooling or they are attending class online, it may be a little trickier seeing the signs. But typically, a lack of participation or avoidance are clear signs of some form of reluctance. Kids will usually try to avoid whatever is bothering them, so if you see them saying they are doing the reading and don’t do it, or keep pushing it off until the last minute, there may be an underlying issue as to why.
The Right Reading Program
Once you know what your child may need to help succeed, look at different options just in case. You may know a certain program or method may work well for your child, but that does not mean there couldn’t be another program out there for them that can also help. There are boundless online programs designed specifically for reading comprehension and struggles in reading. These can be a great asset to try first as they can be easily removed or another one added if they are not doing the trick. If your child is struggling in comprehending the information, simply have them read a book in the lower grade they currently occupy, and see if that helps. If they are in 6th grade, for instance, try a book geared for 5th graders and see if they have a better time reading that. Sometimes children are just a little behind the curve in terms of learning and just need a little more time to play catch up. Make sure that the reading extension or tutoring capabilities that are being offered are reviewed or proven to work. Lots of people will purport to be experts or can promise that something will help, but it is never a guarantee.
With the right tools and you supporting your child, they will succeed!
Katie Kyzivat