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How to Help a Child Develop Reading Comprehension

Reading comprehension is a crucial skill children have to master to be successful throughout school. Comprehension is the main reason for reading -- if children do not understand what they read, they are only viewing or saying words. As a parent, you play an integral part in encouraging your child to read at home and fostering a strong literacy environment. Involvement is also important -- stay in contact with teachers at school to monitor your child's progress and address concerns you have about your child's reading ability.

Instructions

    • 1

      Partner read with your child. Choose a book that is age- and grade-level appropriate or ask your child to bring a book from school. Take turns reading a few pages aloud every day. It is important for children to hear fluent reading so they can emulate it.

    • 2

      Talk to your child during and after reading. Stop and ask questions about character names, setting and plot. Ask older children more complex questions that require critical thinking, like "How would you have reacted in a similar situation?" or "Why do you think the main character felt sad?"

    • 3

      Provide a variety of reading material. If possible, subscribe to children's magazines that have interesting, engaging articles. Take your child to the library often and encourage him to read independently. Buy books about topics that interest him so he will continue to read.

    • 4

      Supplement classroom instruction. Visit your child's classroom. Talk to the teacher about what the children are currently studying so you can find reading material to use at home to reinforce concepts. Ask the teacher about specific comprehension strategies with which you should be helping your child at home.

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