Starting in September, students will be expected to read for 20 minutes, 5 days a week. Reading minutes don't have to be done in one sitting, read for 10 minutes, have a break, and then complete your reading minutes. Students can practice alphabet letters/sounds, Lexia, flashcards, and decodable word lists, parents can read to students (for 10 minutes), and students can read books out loud. Try reading decodable books to reinforce phonic rules as much as possible. Local libraries and the PERC center have tons of phonic readers and decodable books that are free to check out. 

The only way to become a reader is to learn and practice the code of reading. Take the time to teach your child the letter names and sounds, and let them decode the words when reading (don't just give them the word).  This will help your child become a confident reader. 

Did you know?

• Reading develops empathy

• Improves critical thinking skills

• Improves vocabulary

• Teaches social skills

• Strengthens your brain

• Builds background knowledge

• Reduces stress

• Improves sleep

• Improves memory

• Strengthens writing skills

• Strengthens communication skills

• Improves problem solving skills