From Struggling to Successful: 8 Reading Tips for Parents

Reading Comprehension

Reading comprehension is the ability to understand and interpret written text. If you need help with reading comprehension, you may re-read passages or struggle to recall what you just read. Here are some tips for improving reading comprehension:

• Preview the text before you read it. Look at the headings, subheadings, and any visuals to get an idea of what the text is about and what you can expect to learn.
• Monitor your understanding as you read. Stop periodically and ask questions about what you just read to check your comprehension.
• Use graphic organizers like mind maps or diagrams to help organize and summarize information.
• Practice summarizing what you read in your own words to reinforce your understanding.
• Read a variety of texts to expose yourself to different writing styles and topics.

Vocabulary Development

Vocabulary development is essential for improving reading comprehension and fluency. However, if you need help with vocabulary, you may need help understanding unfamiliar words or the meaning of your reading. Here are some tips for improving vocabulary:

• First, read widely and regularly to expose yourself to new words and phrases.
• Use context clues, such as the surrounding words or the text’s tone, to infer the meaning of unfamiliar words.
• Keep a vocabulary journal and write down new words you encounter. Then, look up their definitions and try using them in your writing and conversation.
• Play word games and puzzles, such as crosswords or Scrabble, to make learning new words fun.
• Use flashcards or digital tools like Quizlet to regularly review and practice new words.

Fluency Improvement

Fluency refers to reading smoothly, accurately, and with expression. If you need help with fluency, you may stumble over words, read slowly, or lack expression when you read aloud. Here are some tips for improving fluency:

• First, read aloud regularly to practice your oral reading skills.
• Use a metronome or app, such as ReadRight, to help you read at a consistent pace.
• Practice reading short phrases or sentences repeatedly to improve accuracy and speed.
• Record yourself reading aloud and listen back to identify areas for improvement.
• Use expressive techniques, such as pausing, varying tone, and emphasizing keywords, to add interest and meaning to your reading.

Self-Esteem

Low self-esteem can make it challenging to approach reading with confidence and enthusiasm. If you struggle with self-esteem, you may feel anxious or embarrassed about reading in front of others or avoid reading altogether. Here are some tips for improving self-esteem:

• Practice positive self-talk. Tell yourself that you can improve your reading skills and that making mistakes is okay.
• Set achievable goals for yourself and celebrate your progress.
• Seek support from friends, family, or a teacher or tutor who can encourage and motivate you.
• Choose reading materials that interest and engage you to make reading more enjoyable.
• Remind yourself that reading is a skill that can be developed with practice.

Practice Active Reading

Active reading is an essential skill for overcoming poor reading skills. Active reading means engaging with the text, interacting with it, and connecting to personal experiences or prior knowledge. In addition, active reading helps improve reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and fluency.

To practice active reading, try the following strategies:

• First, preview the text before reading it to understand the content.
• Then, take notes while reading, jotting down important ideas and concepts.
• Ask questions as you read, such as “What is the main idea of this paragraph?” or “How does this relate to what I already know?”
• Visualize what you are reading to help create mental images of the content.
• Summarize what you have read to help reinforce understanding.

Build Prior Knowledge

One of the keys to successful reading comprehension is having prior knowledge of the topic. Prior knowledge helps readers connect what they already know and what they are reading. It also helps readers understand the context and meaning of unfamiliar words.

To build prior knowledge, try the following strategies:

• First, read widely on a variety of topics to expose yourself to new ideas and concepts.
• Make connections between what you are reading and what you already know.
• Use the internet to research topics related to what you are reading.
• Discuss what you are reading with others to gain new insights and perspectives.

Boost Confidence

Low self-esteem and confidence can hinder reading skills. Many struggling readers may feel embarrassed or ashamed about their difficulties with reading, leading to a negative cycle of low motivation and poor performance. Building self-esteem and confidence can help break this cycle.

To boost self-esteem and confidence, try the following strategies:

• First, set achievable reading goals and celebrate when you meet them.
• Second, focus on your strengths as a reader and build on them.
• Third, practice positive self-talk, such as “I can do this” or “I am improving my reading skills.”
• Finally, reward yourself for progress, such as with a favorite treat or activity.

Measure Success

Finally, it is essential to measure success when working to overcome poor reading skills. Measuring success helps track progress and motivates to continue working towards reading goals.

To measure success, try the following strategies:

• Set specific reading goals, such as reading a certain number of books or improving reading speed.
• Keep track of progress towards your goals, such as through a reading log or journal.
• Celebrate achievements, no matter how small.
• Reflect on what has and has not worked, and adjust strategies accordingly.

Overcoming poor reading skills is a process that requires time, effort, and dedication. However, by incorporating the strategies outlined in this article, readers can improve their reading comprehension, vocabulary development, fluency, self-esteem, and success. Remember, there is always time to improve your reading skills, and with practice and persistence, anyone can become a confident and skilled reader.