Here are some helpful ways for you to help your child read.  Before you read - * Look at the title and the illustrations together. * Predict what the story will be about. * Discuss what you both already know about the topic of the story. * Read the first page and then ask your child to predict what might happen next.  During the time you read - * Encourage your child to picture in his or her mind what is happening in the story. * Ask your child what may happen next in the story. * Have your child change his or her predictions as the story provides new information. * Ask how a character might feel and talk about the illustrations. * Look for little words in bigger words. * Backtrack and read again if your child is having difficulty reading the story. * Remind your child to listen to the way that a word sounds and ask if it makes sense. * When trying to figure out a word, look for chunks.  After you read - * Have your child retell the story and create a new ending together. * Choose a character and retell the story from their point of view. * Let your child illustrate his or her favorite part. * Discuss the story together.  Helpful Hints * Select a book that your child can read with few errors! * Read the book to your child! * Read the book again, asking your child to read with you! * Ask your child to read the book alone! * Read the book again, this time with expression! * Encourage your child to read the book with expression! * Leave the book in a place where your child can read it independently! * Encourage your child to read the book and record it on a tape recorder, or to a friend! * Remember to show your children that READING IS FUN!!!!! |