What Was That About?

When we are trying to teach our children how to read words and simple texts, we get very caught up in the blending of sounds and learning of sight words ... but we need to remember that comprehending WHAT they read is so important! As your child is reading, they should be doing a few things periodically through the story.

Have them stop every so often and check for understanding in what they are reading - make sure that the story isn't getting by them and that they aren't just reading the words without attaching meaning to what the words are saying.

When they pick the book back up, have them reread a bit to make sure that they are aware of where the story left off and that they aren't missing any important parts :) This is an effective strategy used by most adults in their reading, even though they aren't aware that they are doing it!

These two simple strategies will help your child understand what they are reading - comprehension! Have a conversation to extend their knowledge - this will help them master the thought processes necessary to respond to reading in school - when they have a reading comprehension story to tackle!

Be A Reader!

Let your child see you as a reader - it will catch on!

Of course, you know the value of reading aloud to a child - they pick up on your tone, excitement and style when you read to them. Don't be afraid to get excited when you're reading - children learn from everything around them and need great examples!

In addition to reading aloud to your child, model for your child your own reading for pleasure. Whether it is a book, ebook, magazine, newspaper - whatever you want - let them see that reading is fun for all! They shouldn't grow up thinking that reading only has a place in school and no value for entertainment ... find what form of the written word entertains YOU and spend some companionable quiet time with your family hanging out and reading!