Tips for Helping Struggling Readers

As an educator, teacher, parent, or tutor, you play a vital role in helping struggling readers improve their skills. Using the tips below, you can make a big difference in how well your students or children do in school and beyond.

Create a Positive Reading Environment
One of the most important things you can do to help struggling readers is to create a positive reading environment. This means having plenty of books available at the student's reading level, including books of interest, encouraging daily reading time, and praising your student's efforts. A positive reading environment will help motivate your student to keep reading, even when challenging. Creating a comfortable and inviting reading nook is easy and is a great way to set up a special positive place.  All you need are some comfy seats, blankets, pillows, and cuddly reading buddies! Below is a photo of our reading corner. It isn't the most fancy, but even my 2 year old loves to sit there and look through books.
​Check out this >> blog post for more info about creating a reading corner. 

Use Technology to Your Advantage
There are plenty of great technology tools out there that can help struggling readers improve their skills. For example, look for apps that focus on phonics or read-along books that can help your student sound out words. In addition, some websites offer interactive games and activities specifically designed to help struggling readers. Utilize these resources to supplement your student's regular reading instruction. Here is a list of some of our favorite reading apps and games:

• Reading Eggs
• Starfall
• Junior Reading Mysteries
• ABC Mouse
• Teach Your Monster to Read

 
Provide One-on-One Assistance
One-on-one assistance is often essential for struggling readers. Take time to sit with your kids each day and help them practice their reading skills. This extra attention will make a big difference in how well they're able to progress. In addition, be sure to provide plenty of encouragement and praise as they work hard to improve their reading ability.

Helping a struggling reader can seem daunting, but by using the tips above, you can make a big difference. Create a positive reading environment, utilize technology tools, and provide one-on-one assistance whenever possible. With your support, your students or children will be on their way to becoming successful readers.