Teaching Reading
One of the most essential requirements in life has got to be understanding how to read.It is crucial that young children are introduced to reading from an early age.If you are teaching a child to read then keep it simple and fun.If learning is fun your child will be more motivated to read.
How do I start?
Recognising the letters of the alphabet and the sounds those letters make is the first step when learning to read.Only when the child has mastered this should you start pairing letters together.Speak slowly and clearly when demonstrating the sounds the letters make.Phonics flashcards are a great learning aid for this part of the process.Moving on from letters to complete wordsWhen your child has mastered the alphabet and the sounds the letters make you can progress to phonics books and worksheets.Choose a book with plenty of colourful images and make sure the font is simple and bold.Always remember to keep things fun and lighthearted.The child will be more willing to learn if you keep the process more like an activity than a classroom lesson.If you give your child the opportunity to choose the book they will feel an even bigger part of the process.When reading, always take it in turns with the child.Keep positive if your child is struggling. Give him or her plenty of encouragement and they will get there in the end.
Keep Offering Encouragement
One of the best ways to get a child to read is to read to them yourself.Pay attention to the books you child enjoys reading.Ask your child to sit down with you and read a few pages out loud.Bedtime is an ideal time to enjoy a book together.Bedtime is one of the best times to read a book together.Reading at bedtime is always a great time to read with your child. Try and offer variety and when the child has become competent with one book move on to something else.You don’t simply have to stick to books, you can read comics and magazines.Why not try baking together and asking the child to read the recipe.
Always try and be supportive and don’t worry about the pace your child takes when learning.
