Literacy, or the ability to read and write, starts developing in infancy. Newborns hear sounds and start to piece together the language spoken in their home as they grow. Though the average age that a child learns to read is 6 or 7, some children sound out words by age 4 or 5, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics' Healthy Children website. However, some kids struggle with literacy. Whether your child struggles to pay attention or has an auditory or visual processing problem, there are ways to help your child achieve literacy.
Significance
Being able to read and write -- literacy -- are essential components of communication. In childhood, reading stories is an adventurous activity that teaches children about the world. In adulthood, reading is a life skill and is imperative in succeeding in most careers. It is important to identify and address literacy problems in children at an early age.
Identification
If a preschooler doesn't know how to hold a book, he may have a learning disability, suggest researchers at the University of Michigan. Another warning sign for a preschooler is an inability to recognize his name. By kindergarten a child may need literacy help if she can't remember names of letters or hesitates to name familiar objects, advise the researchers. First and second graders who struggle with pronouncing and remembering new words, or who avoid reading, may need help to attain literacy.
How to Help
Reading is Fundamental, a nonprofit organization that addresses children's literacy, suggests creating a literacy-rich home. Reading, writing, talking and listening as a family are natural ways to support literacy in the home. Making these activities part of a child's daily routine will spark a love for reading and writing. The American Academy of Pediatrics' Healthy Children website suggests reading together every day at a designated time, such as bedtime. The organization also recommends making your child's room reading-friendly by giving her a reading chair, a lamp and a bookshelf filled with books she will love.
Warning
Do not push a child to read before he is ready. He may become frustrated and view the activity negatively. Rather than forcing drills repeatedly on a child who shows little or no interest in literacy, make a game out of it. Casually find ways to encourage your child's natural interests.
Additional Literacy Help
Talk with your child's teacher or pediatrician about ways to encourage literacy development that would work well for your child's specific needs. Many schools have literacy programs for children with special issues. Your physician may recommend testing to identify problems that may be causing difficulty with reading and writing for your child.
