As a parent or caregiver, you have an amazing ability. As the person who likely spends the most time with your child, you have the capability to help your child learn to read, using these 4 simple steps.
1. Let your child choose the book!
Select three books you think are at their reading level, on topics they enjoy, and encourage them to choose one book from the three presented.2. Ask them to comment on the title
For example, if they are at reading age you can say, “What’s the name of this book? What do you think that means?”. Or if they are younger you could say, “Ohh, this book is called The Dragon. That’s what the title is *point*. What do you think the story is going to be about?”3. Look at the pictures first
Similar to the title, ask the child to comment on the meaning of the pictures, and ask what the story may be about.4. Ask who, what, where, why questions
For example, “Why do you think the villagers are scared of the dragon?” or “Who is the story about?” Allow your child time to answer, and if they are having difficulty, you can give them clues or answer your own questions. This will help your child develop strong comprehension skills! If they get stuck, gently remind them they can look at the pictures for clues. You can also read the page aloud again, and repeat the question.
Because you can.
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