Helping kids learn how to read is a dynamic process that’s different for each child, but keeping your kids on track can be done with just a few minutes each day.

In fact, it’s easier than ever to incorporate reading into anyone’s daily routine, especially with all of the time we’re spending at home. Did you know that you can use your favorite mobile devices to enhance the lesson with cutting-edge learning tools like Interactive Voice-based Questions & Answers (IVQA™) and artificial intelligence?

Here are some tips and activities that anyone can use to improve the learning process for early-stage readers.

1. Set a Consistent Study Schedule

More than most of us, children are creatures of habit. They enjoy routine and feel comfortable with things they can expect and understand. The same can be said for activities like studying and doing homework.

While there will surely be days when your child does not want to sit for a reading session, sticking to the same schedule will get them used to reading being a part of their daily routine.

If they’re using a reading app, you can determine the best time to study by looking at their usage reports. Experiment with the time of day and duration of each lesson, then take a look at the data to see their progress.

2. Communicate Throughout the Story

As you’re reading with your children, be sure to talk about the key points in the story to keep them engaged. Discuss the characters, such as who is the protagonist and who is the antagonist.

Some other topics to talk about might include:

• What settings are discussed in the story?
• What is the main goal of the primary character?
• What is the child’s favorite part of the story?
• How does the child infer that the story will end?

3. Ask Questions

Your young reader might breeze through the books they already know, but they might get caught up on new words and characters as more stories are introduced to them. Asking them questions before, during, and after the lesson will prompt them to think about the material more deeply.

Repetition is one of the best ways to engage a child’s memory, and asking your child about the story will give them added exposure to character names, unfamiliar words, and new concepts from a different perspective.

4. Read TO Your Child

Reading aloud is an important part of any reading plan, but reading to your children can also help them sharpen their skills.

Even if your child isn’t an auditory learner, listening to you piece the words and sentences together will help them make sense of what they’re reading. It also gives them an opportunity to take in the meaning of the story since they won’t be focusing on sounding out words. 

5. Be a Good Listener

Just like listening to the story will help your kids gain a deeper understanding of the story, listening to your child read will help you to keep track of their progress.

Like anyone, your child wants to feel heard and connected with. When you’re reading together, they might be feeling nervous or vulnerable – especially in the early stages. Let them know that you’re there for them to guide them through the process by showing a sincere interest in their comments, predictions, and questions. 

6. Encourage Writing Practice for Reading

Writing is proven to improve reading skills in young children, and it’s another way to add some variety to your lessons.

Start by selecting words and small phrases for early readers, or give your more advanced readers a prompt for an essay reflection or summary. Prompting them to think actively about the story they’re reading will help them gain full immersion, which is likely to speed up the learning process.

7. Use a Reading App to Help Your Children Learn

If your family has been affected by the recent stay-at-home orders amidst COVID-19, your kids have probably been spending more time with technology than ever before. From homeschooling to entertainment, kids are even more glued to their devices. So, why not use this as an opportunity to make learning fun for them?

Reading apps are affordable, easy-to-use platforms that provide your child with a dynamic library of content that’s appropriate for their individual reading level.

Effective reading apps listen to your child’s voice in real-time and respond to their cadence and accuracy to help them identify where improvements can be made.

Not only is your child more likely to WANT to read when they’re using a reading app, but they’ll also get more out of each lesson with the added support and resources available.

8. Incorporate Your Child’s Interests

It’s no secret that children are more likely to do something that’s good for them if they like doing it, not because they know it’s beneficial. Reading is no different and is often seen as a chore like anything else.

Stories that include your kid’s favorite characters, places, or themes will have them looking forward to reading time.

9. Be Flexible

While it’s important to get your kids used to a set schedule for reading practice, it’s also important to understand that some days are going to be better than others. Children are human just like us, and sometimes won’t be as cooperative or enthusiastic about their learning plan.

Understand that your child may become frustrated, bored, or uninterested but that doesn’t mean that they aren’t learning. Go at a pace that’s comfortable for them, and remember to be patient.

Learning how to read is a process full of highs and lows with any child. Help your young reader make the most out of their experience with these helpful tips. To expedite the process, search for their favorite stories using our interactive reading app.