Teaching kids how to read can be a daunting task. Reading does not come naturally and must be taught one step at a time. The process of learning to read includes: print awareness, the sounds of speech, phonemic awareness, phonics, informal assessments, fluency, vocabulary, spelling, writing and text comprehension. According to Reading Rockets, "For many children, reading must be taught explicitly and systematically." There are tools you can use to help teach your child how to read.
Step 1
Create picture cards with corresponding letter cards. Have your child try to match the picture cards with the correct beginning letter card. This activity helps your child learn the relationship between letters and sounds or phonics. When your child has learned phonics, she can put them together to sound out words.
Step 2
Take turns selecting an object you see while traveling. See how many words you both can make that rhyme with the object you chose. This activity helps your child practice skills that form the foundation of reading, writing and spelling. This helps him learn the different sounds letters and blends of words can make.
Step 3
Create a page for each letter of the alphabet. Have your child draw a picture of something that starts with that letter or write a word that begins with that letter. This activity helps her learn which words start with particular letters and the order of the alphabet, which is one of the building blocks of reading.
Step 4
Read books together every day. Reading to your child will help build his vocabulary and help him recognize letters and words. Reading books aloud also exposes your child to new words and ideas.
Tips and Warnings
- Read with enthusiasm and expression. Use different voices. Help your child build her vocabulary by giving everything a name. Have conversations with your child.
Things You'll Need
- Letter cards
- Picture cards
- Pen or markers
- Paper
- Book
