Three Ways to Read! Really?

Yes, for young children there are three ways to read.  Maybe even more!  Each way of reading builds upon the one before and evolves as the child learns more about books.  It is a fun process to watch.

The first way a child reads is to hold a book and make up a story.  By looking at the pictures and what is going on, the child 'tells' the story he or she thinks is going on.  It may sound something like the actual story or may be completely different.  Many times the child brings his or her background experiences into the story telling.  We call this way of reading "reading the pictures."

The second way a child may read is to approximate the story.   This occurs after a story has been read multiple times.  Yes, even to the point of memorization.  The child has heard the story so many times and chimed in, that he or she has the 'gist' of the storyline.  The high points of the story are included, as well as the child's favorite parts.  It is an approximation of the story.

The third way is to read the actual words on the pages.  Of course this is our ultimate goal; however the first two ways lead to the third.  When a child is given the opportunity to read the first two ways, the third way comes easily.

Whichever way your child is reading right now,  it is important for your child to see himself or herself as a reader.  Say things like, What a super reader you are.  Wow, you really read that book.   I like the way you read.  This encouragement builds reading confidence.

It's Never Too Early

It really isn't too early to start reading to your child.  When we read to young children, the first thing they learn is what we call concepts of print.   All that means is that the child knows about books.  Even if you don't say a word about the book itself, you are modeling how to hold the book, the front of the book, back of the book, how to turn a page and that we read the print on the page.  Wow, that's a lot!
If you want to get adventurous, you can talk as you are getting ready to read.  Keep your 'language' or words natural.  A few things you can say are:

• This is the front of the book.
• The title, or name of the book, is...
• The author, or person who wrote the book, is..
• These are the words and these are the pictures.
• This is where we start reading.
• We read the words.
• This is how we turn a page.

We know that very small children aren't really reading.  We want  children to behave like a reader.  You will be surprised at how fast your child will begin to mimic your reading behavior.

Just knowing about how books 'work' help children when they start school.

Welcome!

Welcome to my blog.  I have been in the education business for many, many years!  I have always believed that as parents, we are our child's first teacher.  I also believe that every child is the center of some one's world!  As educators, we owe it to every parent to remember that.

As my children have children, I have been reminded of how complicated and scary we, as educators make going off to school.  I truly believe that we should be partners, working together for what's best for the child.

I have three grandchildren, ages 1, 3 and 5.  I lovingly refer to them as my little nuggets.  As they grow, each with their own unique personality, I worry and hope that they get a teacher who appreciates their individuality.  Many of the characteristics we want children to have as adults come into conflict when they start school.  It is a balancing act between school and home to preserve the individuality of the child.

Hopefully this blog will set your mind at ease, help you get your child 'ready' and answer any questions you might have.