It’s well documented that when children develop good reading skills early on, they are much more likely to be better learners and better educated. Reading is the foundation for success for all other subject matter and the level of success throughout life for the child.

Learning to read isn’t an easy task for a child. This is why it is so very important that you as the parent is a model for reading and work with and encourage your child to read each and every day.

As a parent or homeschooling parent, you should help insure that your child develops essential skills associated with reading such as:

Use of language and vocabulary.

Having your child respond after listening to stories – read short paragraphs and have your child tell you about what they just heard.

Lean and recognize the alphabet and letters – use everyday items around your house to use as examples. For example, cut out big letters and have your child find items around the house that begin with that letter and stick the letter to them.

Work with your child to connect the sound the letters make to the spoken language.

Read… and read often to your child so they know that reading is a daily activity.

Work daily with your child to add a new word to their vocabulary.

Discuss with your child what was just read. This helps you monitor their level of comprehension.

These skills are crucial for the pre-first grade level reader. Once your child reaches the first grade, the focus shifts to enhancing these skills, which will lay the foundation for their lifelong learning journey. As a parent, it’s not sufficient to simply integrate these skills into your child’s daily routine; you must also closely monitor your child’s progress and comprehension. At this formative age, it is essential to start the reading journey on a positive note.

Reading, in its most basic form, is a skill that, like any other, requires practice to master. Indeed, reading is so crucial that the amount of practice a child gets in a traditional school setting is often insufficient. Parents should supplement the school’s reading curriculum with regular reading sessions at home. For those homeschooling, prioritizing reading as a daily activity is essential.

Introducing your child to the local library at an early age is beneficial. Enroll them in summer reading programs. Designate a space in your home for your child to cultivate their personal library. Place their favorite chair in this area or wherever they enjoy reading and where you can read to them.

Reading is indeed the cornerstone of education and success. Lacking proficient reading skills can make life challenging. To lay a strong foundation for your child, foster an early appreciation for reading, and success is likely to ensue.