Learning to read is an extremely complex process. We not only need the tools to break down phonemes (the smallest sounds in language) in order to decode words but we need to understand what each word means and how they work in the context of a sentence and eventually paragraphs. After all that work, it's a difficult task for some children to truly understand what was read to them or what they have read aloud. Parents can model appropriate techniques while reading to their children and can ask children to do the same techniques when they read aloud. Here are some simple ideas to get your child comprehending.
One technique called "Think aloud" is used by many teachers. As you read to your child, pause after a character is about to make an important decision or is about to get into trouble or any other important turning point in the story. Comment to your child about what is happening. For example: "Uh oh, I think Thomas is going to run into some real problems if he goes too fast." Do this on a consistent basis throughout a story so children realize that good readers are constantly making predictions and drawing conclusions about the characters and events.
Another technique is making a 'text-to-self' or 'text-to-text' connection. When a certain event happens in a story ask your children if they have ever been in a similar situation or if it reminds them of another character from another book or even someone you both know. Don't be afraid to spend a little time making comparisons. It can truly enrich a child's reading experience and allow them to connect and reflect on what they read.
Reading to your children from the time they are born (or before!) is extremely valuable. It is not important to have very young children sit and listen in a traditional way. The important factor is that children are listening to language on a constant basis and developing a positive relationship to literature. When they reach the age of 4 try to read at least 15 minutes a day and by the age of 6 they should read at least one book a day to you in addition to you reading to them.
One technique called "Think aloud" is used by many teachers. As you read to your child, pause after a character is about to make an important decision or is about to get into trouble or any other important turning point in the story. Comment to your child about what is happening. For example: "Uh oh, I think Thomas is going to run into some real problems if he goes too fast." Do this on a consistent basis throughout a story so children realize that good readers are constantly making predictions and drawing conclusions about the characters and events.
Another technique is making a 'text-to-self' or 'text-to-text' connection. When a certain event happens in a story ask your children if they have ever been in a similar situation or if it reminds them of another character from another book or even someone you both know. Don't be afraid to spend a little time making comparisons. It can truly enrich a child's reading experience and allow them to connect and reflect on what they read.
Reading to your children from the time they are born (or before!) is extremely valuable. It is not important to have very young children sit and listen in a traditional way. The important factor is that children are listening to language on a constant basis and developing a positive relationship to literature. When they reach the age of 4 try to read at least 15 minutes a day and by the age of 6 they should read at least one book a day to you in addition to you reading to them.
Some other ideas to help with comprehension:
- Have children create their own mini books (young children can draw the pictures and can dictate the story to you. Older children may do both tasks or as a fun twist you can draw the pictures based on what they have written)
- Choose books that have simple words so your child can focus on what is happening in the story
- Have children keep a journal
- Make up songs and oral stories
- Knock, Knock Jokes (there are tons if sites)
Read, reflect, connect and enjoy!
Sara Lise
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