Within the last two blog posts, we discussed the foundation needed to understand how to work at home with your struggling child.
While moving forward there is one overriding principle that is important to stress, that is –
TAKE YOUR TIME – DO NOT RUSH.
Understand that what is being recommended here is not meant to replace a more in-depth reading remediation using methods supported in the research such as those that are Orton-Gillingham based.
These recommendations are the equivalent of shooting baskets or having a catch with your child – they could help to reinforce skills and they’re fun.
Using “Old School” Index Cards
While working with the child at home, the recommendation is that you use “old school” index cards for practicing words and sensitizing your child to different syllables within complex words.
As a first step, look at the reading assigned or the worksheets that have been given. Ask the child to read these out loud to you. Any words that the child stumbles on should be entered on an index card.
For example, let’s say the words dinosaur or porcupine are hard for your child to read. On an index card using a bright marker, write the words down and underline the parts with the marker:
(e.g., di no saur) or porcupine (por cu pine)
Over time, you will develop a fairly large bank of words that can be played with in different ways.
The ultimate goal is to help your child to recognize the parts of the word, while being able to read the whole word automatically. Make the activity fun by using things like stickers as reinforcements.
Spend about 10-15 minutes on this type of activity on a consistent basis, but don’t overdo it. (You wouldn’t have a catch all morning.)
Practicing Fluency
Find reading material that you know is on your child’s independent reading level (that is, the level where the material is relatively easy). You can use material that is slightly above the easy level, but you don’t want to go too far beyond that point.
For about 10 minutes have your child read out loud. Make it fun and lively. After the reading put a big green check on a calendar if the child read with good attitude (i.e., no whining or complaining). After a week or so of green checks, go out for a small reward (like an ice cream sundae).
The point of this routine is that practicing is key. This is particularly important for children with dyslexia.
Takeaway Point
It will be warming up soon. Get outside and shoot some baskets and have a catch in the backyard.
Copyright, 2021 www.shutdownlearner.com
Questions or comments email Dr. Selznick: rselznick615@gmail.com.