Reading and basic math are essential skills. Without them, your child will be hampered in their ability to succeed both academically and in the work force. The good news is, even if your child is struggling with these skills in school, you can help your child learn them at home. Sometimes just a different setting and a different approach is all it takes for a child to make a breakthrough.
Types of Reading Programs
Schools use several types of reading programs. Most fall into one of three categories: phonics, whole language and hybrids. Phonics is the systematic teaching of rules that define how words are constructed. Whole language programs take an immersion approach and emphasize the student's ability to understand and discuss what was read. Hybrid programs, which are the most common, teach basic phonics and immerse the students in language.
One On One Instruction
Commercial tutoring and after school learning centers work because they offer one on one instruction that is customized to meet each child's individual needs. You can give your child the same advantage at home. Set aside some time to work on basic skills together. Do not simply help your child complete her homework during that time---spend it teaching and practicing the specific skills she is behind in.
Make Math Facts Fun
Memorizing math facts is a basic skill that many children struggle with. Rote memorization is not much fun, but sometimes it is necessary. Make math facts more interesting by playing and singing along to math facts songs and playing games that drill fact families such as 6+1=7, 6+2=8. Computer games, such as Math Magician offered by the Oswego, New York school district, make drills more fun (See Resources).
Build On Child's Interests
By the time a child is identified as having problems with basic skills, he may have already given up on the subject and decided he is simply not interested in learning to read or that he is just not good at math. You will have to break through that mental block before you and your child can make real progress. Begin by relating reading or math to one of his favorite subjects or interests. If he loves music, show him how he uses math every time he plays. Offer books about his favorite musicians, and make time to discuss what he read later.
Considerations for Special Needs
If your child has a learning disability, it is crucial that she receive the extra help she needs to master basic skills. Computers are often very effective in teaching basic reading and math skills, and in supporting kids with difficulties in these areas.
Digital dictionaries give students the definitions they need while they read, without forcing them to dig through pages of tiny text that is difficult for them to differentiate. Computer-based reading and math programs present material using both visual and audio methods, which allows special needs students to learn in ways that are comfortable for them.
References
- Learning Disabilities Online: Adolescent Literacy: What's Technology Got to Do With It?
- "Phonics Pathways: Clear Steps to Easy Reading and Perfect Spelling"; Dolores G. Hiskes; 2005
- University of Minnesota: Glossary of Math Teaching Strategies
