By Sanam K.
The process of learning to read is a long one and will depend on each individual child.
Most commonly, children will start learning to read in kindergarten, but most preschools incorporate learning words and sounds in their curriculum to prepare children early.
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How Do You Help Children Learn to Read?
As a parent, it can be hard to choose from a wide variety of books and activities, or figure out where to start when it comes to your helping your children learn to read seamlessly. With that in mind, I have compiled a list of resources for supporting them in their learning process.
Before I dive into it, here is my reminder. Typically, for kindergarten, your child will be at Beginner Level, Level I, or A. So look for books that have those levels written on them or are in a beginner section.
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My First BOB Books
These are the books I used when I started to teach my daughter how to read. They use repetition so your child can learn the words more easily.
The stories are simple and use small words, so they can get through the books quickly and without being overwhelmed. You can find these books at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
Epic! and ABC Mouse
Epic and ABC Mouse are apps or digital tools that can improve your children’s learning and help them learn to read. They incorporate games into their lessons so that your child doesn’t feel like they’re sitting in a class and instead can have fun with learning.
Each offers a subscription at $9.95-$9.99 per month. If you can swing it, it’s a good way to keep your kids busy with a safe and educational activity at the doctor’s office, waiting room, or while traveling.
Finding Books that Interest Your Child
Looking for books that interest your child is an important point. If your children are interested in what they are learning, they are more likely to put more effort into it.
For example, my daughter and husband are both big Star Wars fans, so they bond by reading Star Wars books and doing workbooks together.
This is a great way for parents to bond with their kids on something that not only entertains and stimulates the child but interests the parent as well.
You may also like: 5 Amazing Ways to Get Kids Interested in Writing (Plus Fun Writing Prompts)
Sight Word Flashcards
With my daughter, we started with sight words, which are commonly occurring words that can be learned visually. Her preschool had been doing sight word searches throughout her classroom, and now that she can read, she’s placing them around the house to teach her younger brother.
Flashcards can be made into a fun game for your child. We use sight word flashcards on nights when our daughter doesn’t feel like reading a book. Hide the cards and go on a hunt, write down points, or have your kids quiz you back. Play around with it!
First Little Readers
Like the BOB books, First Little Readers is a great way to practice sight words and introduce your child to reading. They have different levels, so as your child progresses, you can continue to challenge them with more difficult books.
Writing Letters to Help Your Children Learn to Read Seamlessly
Writing letters to family members has been a great way for my daughter and me to bond, and for her to bond with family members who don’t live in town.
She likes to send letters to her aunts and grandma. Plus, when they write back, the excitement makes her want to read their letters and write them back immediately!
This is a really fun way to practice reading and writing with your child and help them learn to read.
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Workbooks/Printables and Coloring Books
Workbooks or printables are a great way for your child to practice writing their sight words when they first learn to read.
There are also a lot of coloring books that incorporate writing on their pages, so look out for those too. Not every child will be interested in coloring, but for the ones that do, this is a fantastic tool to use when they say they are “bored” or if you’re traveling.
We take language arts printables or other fun workbooks with us on the plane when we visit family and it really does take up the time!
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Final Thoughts on Helping Children Learn to Read Seamlessly
There are many ways to support your children in their school adventures as they learn to read. Most of it will depend on your child’s interests, so make sure to listen to what they enjoy.
At the end of the day, they are going to love spending that time with you. Remember to have fun with it!
Happy reading!
What other resources do you use for helping your children learn to read seamlessly or improve their reading skills? Let us know in the comments below.
