Reading The Learning Journey

Reading is one of life’s most essential requirements.To get the best possible start in life, children should be introduced to reading and books.The best tip would be to keep it simple.Children will want to learn if you make the subject matter fun as reading will not seem like a chore to them.

How do I start?

The alphabet is the first stage on this learning journey, where the child begins to recognise letters and the sounds they make.Once the child has mastered this step you can start pairing the letters together.Speak slowly and clearly when demonstrating the sounds the letters make.Phonics flashcards are a great learning aid for this part of the process.When is my child ready to read complete words?When your child has mastered the alphabet and the sounds the letters make you can progress to phonics books and worksheets.Books with bold yet simple images and a tidy typeface tend to work best.As you progress remember to keep things light hearted and fun.Of course this is educational but if you make it more of a fun task then your child will respond much better.If you give your child the opportunity to choose the book they will feel an even bigger part of the process.When reading, always take it in turns with the child.Keep positive if your child is struggling. Give him or her plenty of encouragement and they will get there in the end.

Encouraging the child to read

By actively reading to your child you will naturally increase your child’s interest in books.Pay attention to the books they choose.Ask your child to sit down with you and read a few pages out loud.Bedtime is an ideal time to enjoy a book together.Bedtime is one of the best times to read a book together.Reading at bedtime is always a great time to read with your child. Variety is another way to keep boredom at bay. Offer a wide range of books and stories.You don’t simply have to stick to books, you can read comics and magazines.Why not try baking together and asking the child to read the recipe.
Be supportive at all times and never critical.