Let’s face it, getting our kids to do things they don’t want to do can end in a handful of ways: tears, arguments, or yelling. To avoid it, we, as parents, often throw our hands up and admit defeat. Although this can happen with just about any academic subject, we see it frequently with reading and kids refusing to pick up books.
If this sounds like your household, you’re certainly not alone. But before you hand back the iPad, read these four common questions we get from parents about reluctant readers.
1. How do I get my child to read on a nightly basis?
Given that 20-30 minutes of reading each night is often required for elementary school kids, this is a question on many parent’s minds.
To avoid frustration and resentment towards reading, try not to make it part of homework time. This only adds to your child’s homework burden. Instead, make reading a part of the evening routine! Schedule it after dinner and before bed, when your child is winding down for the night. When kids can equate reading to relaxation, it makes it all that easier.
Reluctant readers often have a hard time getting started independently. Instead, consider paired reading – you read a page, your child reads a page, or for a very reluctant reader – you read two pages, he reads one page. This actually takes two-thirds of the burden of reading away from your child. When things seem easier to kids, they’re often more likely to do it.
2. When we read together, how much should I correct?
As you read with your child, you may find that it’s your natural tendency to correct each mistake, but this often creates frustration.
Leave it alone if she skips over a word or replaces a small word that doesn’t impact the meaning. Don’t correct her. However, if she replaces a word like “grill” with “girl,” which impacts the entire sentence’s meaning, you should probably draw attention to that.
Make corrections sparingly and try not to regularly interrupt your child. Your goal as a parent is just simply to be there to read with your child, not to make them a perfect reader. When kids are corrected too much, they feel judged, and that’s when they avoid certain tasks like reading.
3. How can I get my kid to read independently?
Try to get your child an audio version of the book they’re reading and have him follow along in the book while he listens. It doesn’t mean that your child’s just staring off into space and listening halfheartedly.
If your child’s listening and following along, studies show that their reading fluency and comprehension improve so much faster than if they read independently. This can happen when kids pick books that are right around their current reading level. Kids don’t get enjoyment from books that are too difficult for them.
4. My son will only read graphic novels. How can I get him to move to another book? Do I force him to read something that has more content?
I get this question a lot from moms of boys! The answer is no. Kids will gravitate to other books on their own time. In fact, when teachers assign books for reading, chances are they’re not graphic novels. If we remember that reading should equate with relaxation, allow your child to continue reading graphic novels at home. At least he’s reading and finding pleasure from it.
Parents frequently inquire about Kindles and digital reading apps for tablets or smartphones. However, these devices can easily distract young readers, as they offer countless other online temptations. Even with the best intentions, children may find themselves drawn to other apps or websites within minutes.
Don’t let reading difficulties hold your child back!
If you notice your child is regularly avoiding reading or struggling with decoding or comprehension, it may be time to consider a reading tutor. A skilled tutor will provide personalized instruction and support to help your child develop essential reading skills and build confidence. Schedule a free consultation today to discuss how our virtual, one-on-one reading tutors can help your child achieve their full potential.