Embedded Files
The Science of Reading
The Science of Reading
The Science of Reading is a way of teaching reading. It is based on decades of research on how brains work, and how kids learn to read. These quick tips can help make it easier for your child to learn to read.
Tip 1: Start with Sounds, Not Letters
Tip 1: Start with Sounds, Not Letters
Humans learn to process sound before they can read. When introducing a new letter to your child, start by making the sound the letter makes, then show the child what the letter looks like. For example, say “Can you make the sound mmm? That sound, mmm, goes with the letter M. It looks like this.”
Tip 2: Practice Blending Sounds
Tip 2: Practice Blending Sounds
Help your child practice blending sounds together into words. Start with words that have two or three sounds. For example, ask your child “What happens with you blend the sounds p a n? That’s right, it makes the word “pan”.
Tip 3: Use an Intentional Phonics Program
Tip 3: Use an Intentional Phonics Program
Go over new phonics sounds in a particular order. Try Hooked on Phonics, available here at the library!
Tip 4: Get Decodable Books for Your Child to Read to You
Tip 4: Get Decodable Books for Your Child to Read to You
Decodable books are books designed for the newest readers. They are meant to have each word sounded out. Try one of our decodable kits available here at the library!
Tip 5: Read a Mix of Fiction and Fact Books to Your Child
Tip 5: Read a Mix of Fiction and Fact Books to Your Child
One reason children fall behind in reading in third and fourth grade is they don't understand what they are reading. By reading high-quality fiction and fact books to your child, you increase their background knowledge and comprehension. If you need help find a book, ask at the Youth Services Reference Desk, or visit our Just for You! website. We can help!
Tip 6: Practice I Read, You Read, I Read Again
Tip 6: Practice I Read, You Read, I Read Again
When you read to your child, read a sentence. Then, have your child read the same sentence. Then, you read the sentence again. It's a great way to get extra practice!
Tip 7: Look at Words, Not Pictures
Tip 7: Look at Words, Not Pictures
Sometimes, new readers will look at a book's pictures and guess what the words are. It might seem like the child is reading, but they are actually just guessing. If you see your child's eyes looking at the pictures and not the words, have them re-focus on the words.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse