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Reading is a stepping stone to success for most children. In this media-rich age, children need parents to read to them now more than ever. How can you help your children improve their learning with reading?
One great way to improve your child's reading comprehension is to ask questions during the story. Having your child exercise problem-solving skills, draw conclusions, and form opinions prepares them for the real world in many ways! As you finish a segment of the story, ask questions such as "Why do you think Dick did that?" or "What would you do in that situation?" Don't let them think there is a wrong answer!
Asking your child to predict the story ending is also a great way to get them involved in the process. This helps them to use their problem-solving skills to their maximum capacity. They also are very proud when they get it right!
When you are reading with your child, and they come across a word they don’t fully understand, ask them questions that sharpen their skills, such as “What makes sense here?” This helps the child think about what they are reading, rather than stumble through the words just to make you happy.
Help your child learn to read in unconventional ways, by giving them things they WANT to read. Write them notes, hand them the comic section of the newspaper, or write out their favorite song lyrics. Ask them to help you read a recipe while you bake the cookies. In order to get them excited about reading; let them know how reading helps you in your daily affairs. Tell them how you love to read letters from Grandma, or how much you enjoy your Bible study or Book Club. Don’t try to force them to enjoy reading; try to help them find a medium that they love to read. If you encourage them, the skills will come!
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