By the time our kids get past the first few grades in elementary school, many parents could easily make the assumption that their children can read. The question is: "Can they really read?" Effective reading is more than the ability to sound out or recognize written words. Effective reading is more than voicing a sentence from a book, article or magazine. To be an effective reader, a person must understand the meaning of the words or the sentences.
The Success of a child's Education depends upon his/her ability to read well.
Reading will be an important part of fully engaging in his/her education. For example: if a student is unable to make sense of a group of words (otherwise known as a sentence), how will he be able to solve a mathematic "story problem"? Many children who demonstrate a math deficiency may actually be undermined by a reading problem. If the science teacher assigns a chapter for which there will be a test, a poor reader may be doubly challenged--unable to effectively read the assignment and comprehend the information AND unable to successfully navigate the items on the examination.
Effective Readers demonstrate better Communication Skills
People (including kids!) are more likely to use a greater vocabulary the more they read. Words have special and specific meaning. The day-to-day language we all use may be limited based upon who we talk with and the culture of our immediate relationships. But when we read, we have an opportunity to explore and experience an ever greater variety of words (vocabulary) and their meaning (in context). Then, as we experience and learn new words and ideas, we are more likely to specifically verbalize what we know and feel.
Enthusiastic readers Read more, Learn more and Enjoy the process
Our culture is information-based. The news media often include a barrage of numbers, statistics and conclusions. Effective readers are more likely to seek out a variety of sources prior to making decisions or choices. They are more willing to read more than the headlines and ferret out the details of an issue. Reluctant readers may be more likely to get their information from quick-quips on television, leaving them more vulnerable to making unfounded decisions or conclusions.
When our kids are little, we read to them. When our kids go to school and start reading on their own, it is important to stay involved and observant. There are several signs and symptoms that demonstrate a child is struggling with reading: ---The most obvious would be a teacher's assessment. Since reading is so important to many other developing skills, it makes sense to make it a learning HIGH-priority so your child doesn't fall inadvertently behind. Therefore, if your child's periodic assessment suggests a potential problem, talk with his/her teacher about what you can do to help. ---If you suspect a visual problem, schedule an examination with an Optometrist who specializes in children's visual issues. (Ask if the Doctor's evaluation includes "reading behaviors") A child could have eye-muscle issues that prevent eye-coordination; a child might have "tracking" issues that prevent reading lines of words; a child's brain might be altering how he/she "sees" letters on a page. ---If your child refuses to read with you, you might be caught in a power struggle. He/she may prefer the passive entertainment of TV or Video Games and be unwilling to put in the effort of reading. Perhaps you can strike a bargain (i.e. trade hour of reading for hour of video games or read 15 minutes, or a chapter, or a short story in exchange for a favorite TV program). ---If your child seems overwhelmed or frustrated with the reading material you have at home, take a trip to the library and let him/her choose a book or magazine to take home. Then encourage him/her to read to you. When your child struggles with a word, give hints but don't automatically say the word--help sound it out. Then give him applause or high-five or another expression of our pride and pleasure when he/she tries and succeeds and puts in a good effort
Your child's future success in school, in work and in recreational reading may depend on you and your attitude about reading. Encourage! Encourage! Encourage! Get help from professionals if your child needs it. And, relentlessly support a struggling reader's effort. Positive words and interactions with you may make all the difference.
For more ideas about how to help a struggling student, you're invited to visit http://www.HomeworkSuccessNetwork.com You'll find lots of ideas, articles and links to make parenting (and student-ing) easier for everyone. When the goin' gets rough, go 'n' get more information
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