Guided reading is a powerful instructional strategy for supporting children’s reading development. Parents can play a key role in helping their children succeed with guided reading by creating a supportive, engaging, and consistent environment. Here are five tips to help parents with guided reading:
- Create a Consistent Reading Routine
Establish a set time each day for reading. Consistency helps children develop a reading habit and builds fluency over time. It’s helpful to choose a quiet, comfortable spot free from distractions. Consistency also makes it easier to track progress and provides a sense of stability for the child. - Encourage Active Reading
Parents can guide their children through active reading techniques. This includes:
• Pre-reading discussion: Before starting, talk about the title, pictures, or what the child already knows about the book to build context.
• Pointing to words: Encourage the child to point to words as they read, reinforcing the connection between spoken and written language.
• Ask questions: While reading, ask open-ended questions like, “What do you think will happen next?” or “How does this part make you feel?” to engage their thinking and comprehension. - Provide Support Without Over-Helping
While it’s important to guide the child, over-correcting can discourage them. Offer gentle prompts when the child struggles, like:
• “What sound does this letter make?”
• “Can you try that word again?”
• “What’s the first letter of the word?” Encourage them to try sounding out words, using pictures, or looking for familiar word patterns before offering the answer. - Use Positive Reinforcement
Praise effort, not just accuracy. Focus on their effort and persistence, saying things like:
• “I love how you tried that word again!”
• “Great job using the picture clues!” Positive reinforcement builds confidence and motivates children to keep trying, even when they face challenges. - Tailor Reading to Their Level and Interests
Choose books that are at the child’s reading level to avoid frustration but also keep them challenged. The child should be able to read 8 words out of 10 correctly for it to be the appropriate reading level. It’s also crucial to pick books that match the child’s interests, which can make reading more enjoyable. Books about favorite animals, sports, or hobbies can spark excitement and make them eager to read. By following these tips, parents can foster a supportive and encouraging reading environment that helps their children develop strong literacy skills through guided reading.
