How do I choose a book at my child's reading level?

This is the most common question I discuss with parents. You are told to find books "at your child's level". So...what does that mean? Where do you find these books? How do you know if the books are too easy or too hard?

Another common scenario: You are reading with your child at home and he or she is frustrated - the words are too hard, the book is too long, and confidence is fading. You might be reading every other word on the page and concerned that your child cannot decode the words.

The book honestly just might be too difficult - right now. Finding a book that is appropriate for your child's current reading level is the way to further reading skills by providing a text that your child can read. This will build confidence, improve fluency, and support progress to more challenging texts. Focus on what your child can do right now and provide opportunities for success.

One last thought...kids are really good at choosing too long, too challenging books to bring home. (Sound familiar?) If you know your child has selected too hard of a book, consider reading it aloud together! Giving the chance for him/her to still experience the story, hear the vocabulary, listen to your fluent reading, and talk about it is incredibly beneficial!

First, be sure you understand how reading levels work, as there are many programs

that could determine a student's level.