Raising a Reader
2007-01-17

by D. E. Herrod, B.Ed.E, M.Div.

The goal should not be teaching a child to read but rather teaching a child to become a reader. One of the most important things to remember is that reading is more than just a school subject. It encompasses far more than just reading a story in a textbook. Teaching a child to read is an act of empowerment. Once a child or adult can read they can accomplish anything. Reading is the key to gaining knowledge and skills.

Teaching reading begins when a child is very young. Reading to a child and learning the alphabet and words are important steps in learning to read. When a child is 2 to 3 years old include predictable and easy reading books in collection of books you read to your child. As you are reading track or point to the words. This helps you rchild connect written and spoken words. It is ok and even good if your child memorizes books at this stage. Allow them to read with and to your. Encourage them to track words as they are reading. At first they will not be able to match the written and spoken words but over time this will begin to click.

Teaching the alphabet is another important step in the reading. It is more than just learning the alphabet song. Many children can recite the alphabet song but are not able to recognize the letters of the alphabet. Begin by teaching your child the letters in his or her name. As your child learns these letters teach other letters in the alphabet.

Another way to teach reading is to allow you child to dictate stories. A good way to begin is after your child has drawn a picture ask them what the picture is about or if they have any words to write about the picture. In the beginning your child may only have a few words to write about the picture but over time the story will increase. After your child has become familiar with the process try having you child dictate a story. Write the story on chart paper or another big piece of paper. Display the story in your child's room or other prominent location and read the story daily.

One of the most important steps in helping your child become a reader is by modeling reading. If you value reading then your child is more likely to share that. Reading aloud to your child is a good way to develop a child's interest in books. Reading aloud also helps develop langauge and listening skills. Modeling reading with fluency and expression helps childern develop these skills.

Remember that the goal of teaching reading is to teach your child to become a reader not just master a textbook. Find books that interest your child and read with your child. Do not get discouraged if your child get off to a slow start. I was a very reluctant reader and struggled with reading in 1st and 2nd grades but by third grade I was at least two grade levels ahead. How did I make such progress? My mother was committed to teaching me to read. We read every day. Reading is caught rather that taught.