Now that we are really getting into our reading strategy groups, I wanted to share some strategies we have been working on in the classroom. Here are some notes and tips you can use at home with your child when reading:

1) There are 2 ways to read a book – read the pictures and read the words. If you child picks out a book that is above their reading level, that is okay! Let them read the pictures out loud to you. They can look at the pictures and tell you what they predict is happening in the story. This is great for oral language and making predictions. Encourage them to “add more details!”

2) If they get stuck on a word, we have been using 3 main strategies to solve those words.

     – Bubble gum stretch (sound out the words – your child can show you how we do this in class).

     – Use the pictures – usually the pictures will match the words

     – Cross check – once you think you have the correct work, ask yourself, “Does it look right?” “Does it sound right?” “Does it make sense?” If you can answer yes to all 3 of these questions, there’s a good chance, you have the right word!

3) Point to each word as you read it. Make sure they are only saying 3 words if there are only 3 words on the page.

4) After reading a story, ask your child to retell it to you. We have been using the format “First, next, then, last.” They can always go back and reread if they need help.

I hope these reading strategies help you and your child while reading. Thank you so much for your support and helping to bring our classroom into your home 🙂