There are many strategies for helping your child improve her reading at home. One of the simplest is to turn on the closed-captioning or subtitles when she watches television or a movie. Although she may not consciously be reading the captions, she will see the words and hear them at the same time, which will improve familiarity with word and language structure.
Another strategy is to read with your child, rather than just reading to him. Alternate reading passages of a favorite book or story. Have him follow along with a finger as you read words aloud. Then, follow along with your finger as he reads aloud. Choose books or stories that your child is comfortable with reading at first, then advance to books and stories that he finds challenging.
Many home activities offer opportunities to encourage your child to read and strengthen reading skills. Ask her to read the recipe as you cook a favorite dish. Have her read the instructions on household products. Encourage comprehension skills by asking her to compare and contrast the ingredients or nutrition facts in two different food products, such as boxes of cereal.
Show kids that reading is not only important, but also enjoyable by letting them see you read regularly. Hand your child the comics section of the newspaper while you read the front page--comics are another smart way to encourage a struggling reader.
There are also many ways you can encourage kids who struggle with reading while away from home. Give your child the grocery list and have him read the list and check off the items as you pick them up. Hand your child the store's sale flyer and ask him to find items that are on your list that may be on sale. Have him compare prices, quantities and ingredients on the labeling of similar products.
Ask your child to read road signs and help you navigate through town. You can even create a "scavenger" hunt on a familiar route that requires her to locate specific words and phrases on signs throughout the journey.
Take your children to zoos and museums that will interest them. Have them read the informational signs and tell you about the animals and exhibits. If you attend church, provide your child with his own Bible or hymnal so you can follow along together with the readings or the words of the songs being sung.
Planning a trip to the movies? Hand your child the section of the local paper that lists theater showings and times and have her tell you when to head to the theater. When dining out, have kids read their own menu and choose what to eat rather than ordering for them. Make use of those restaurant kids' menus, too; many of them have word games that can be played while you wait for dinner to arrive.