How to Help Me When I'm Stuck on a Word

Give me time to think.  Sometimes I might need some wait time of 5 to 10 seconds to see what I can do for myself.

Prompt me to start the word by saying the first sound or syllable.

Suggest that I sound the word out (IF it follows the phonics rules I know).  Help me find the part/syllable (chunk) of the word I might know.

Prompt me to try again with a different sound if the word doesn't make sense in the sentence. Have me go back and read it again to figure out what would look right and make sense.

Suggest that I look for an ending (like "ed" or "ing"). If it does, help me cover it up, and try the base word alone.

Cover up any tricky parts and help me with those if I can't figure them out.  

Help me think about similar words I might know to help me figure out the word.

Stay positive and encourage me.  If I get too frustrated, please tell me the word.