Parents are key in helping children acquire reading skills. Here are some strategies to help children recognize sounds and word patterns and improve vocabulary and reading comprehension.
Decoding
Play rhyming games and read rhyming books with children; Dr. Seuss is a good source.
As you read, point out that rhyming words contain the same vowel and final consonant, such as in mat and sat, spoon and moon.
Point out patterns in storybooks — words with the same endings, such as "-ing," or prefix, such as return and remember.
Read aloud at the same time your child reads silently, or aloud with you. Read billboards together while driving. Practice reading the words of a favorite song or poem.
Vocabulary
Use precise words to label objects, places and people. For example: "Uncle Randy is about 3 inches taller than Aunt Donna."
Ask children precise questions, such as, "What did you and Timmy eat when you went out for supper with his parents?" Wait for them to answer.
Talk about words with multiple meanings, such as "duck."
Introduce new words and use them in several settings and contexts.
When reading together, point out clues to word meanings contained in the rest of the sentence.
Comprehension
Discuss elements of a story as you read it to your child. Ask her to name the main characters and summarize the plot.
Have your child retell or illustrate a story in sequence.
Discuss the story elements found in a TV show or film you watch together.
Have your child draw a time line of important events of her own life or those found in a story.
Tape important sections of a story or textbook for your child. Listen to those sections and discuss key points together.
Source: Schwab Learning's "Bridges to Reading," adapted by the Coordinated Campaign for Learning Disabilities.