ABCs of Learning

In the tradition of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, the first week of March is dedicated as a time to Read Across America. Reading is a lifelong activity that can become a fun, engaging experience for your whole family. Here are some ways to get everyone involved and to help your child in school:

·        Children learn from the examples set by adults. When a child sees a parent reading daily, he/she will be more likely to pick up a book or magazine during free time. The materials might include newspapers, books, or magazines.

·        Encourage reading as a shared experience. An adult can buddy up with a child and take turns reading. After the child reads aloud one page, the adult can then take the next page. This partner activity promotes teamwork and provides support for the struggling reader. 

·        Just as many families have a game night or movie night, designate one evening as a reading night. Chose a topic of interest and find an article or story to share. While listening to adults as they read, children have a model for fluent, expressive reading.

·        Rather than simply signing children’s school reading logs, take the time to listen to their oral reading. Parent questioning will help to develop the child's critical thinking skills. Ask a child to identify character traits, draw conclusions about an event, and make predictions about what might happen next.  

·        Celebrate a child’s reading success. Chart progress in completing school reading assignments and novels. Allow the child to choose from a menu of rewards. A trip to the bookstore for a new book makes for a fun weekend outing.