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Five Tips for Encouraging Young Readers

These tips for encouraging young readers reflect Reading is Fundamental’s integrated approach to improving literacy skills. By providing children with content-rich, age appropriate books and motivational activities, it is possible to increase a child’s literacy skills.

Also created to improve reading proficiency in students, RIF’s Read for Success is an evidence-based, reading intervention program. Test results show that when children have access to books and enjoy reading, they read more. These tips embody some of the reading skills emphasized in the Read for Success program. More than 57% of students enrolled in Read for Success in their schools showed improvement in reading skills. If your school would like information on implementing Read for Success check out our website.

  • Create a Fun and Relaxed Atmosphere

Taking time for a read aloud is a chance for a child to learn new ideas and concepts in safe and comfortable environment. By making this a fun part of the day, children will love the story and model your enthusiasm for reading. A read aloud is not just for the little ones, all students benefit from exposure to new concepts, vocabulary and knowledge.

  • Stay Inquisitive

Ask questions about the story – asking questions connects the topic to the child’s world. Use your questions to encourage the child to link his/her world to the subject matter. Take learning even further by introducing project-based activities that reflect this new knowledge base.

  • Provide Books that Reflect the Child’s World

Allow the child to choose the book – kids are more engaged when readings reflect the child’s world, culture, and interests. Help children explore topics they are interested in and can reflect upon. When a child makes an emotional connection to a topic, they are far more likely to be remembered.

  • Let the Child Tell the Story

Encourage your child to tell a different version of the story you’re reading. Or, put a unique spin on story time and allow children to read to each other. Strong literacy skills involve listening and communicating

  • Communicate Success for all Readers

Reinforce that every child can be a reader. Celebrate all successes, large and small, encouraging children to focus on their own literacy journey. Shift the pressure off discussing the progress of their friends and classmates to build confidence.

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