"Every child has their own pace when it comes to reading. Reading challenges don't reflect on your child's intelligence or potential."

BY THE BOOK: Get a reading assessment for your child. An assessment could give you important information about your child's reading skills. Catching any reading issues early can make it easier to help them get better at reading.

3. HOW CAN I HELP MY CHILD WHILE WAITING FOR SCHOOL INTERVENTION SUPPORT?

Research shows that a supportive home environment can be very beneficial for children's reading development. While you're waiting or advocating for the school to step in, here are things you can do at home.

• Create a supportive and engaging reading environment at home. You can set aside a specific reading time and cozy reading space at home. This will show your child that reading is an important part of their daily activities.
• Another great way to motivate your child to read is to help them find books they are interested and excited about, but are still easy enough for them to follow and read on their own or create and tell you their own story out of the pictures. You can also pick some of these simpler books to read together, doing repeat readings or asking them questions about the pictures, to help build their skills. This balanced approach can boost their excitement for reading and improve their reading ability.
• You can encourage your child to create their own stories. They can tell you a story out loud and you can type it out for them, and then read the stories together. Afterwards, let them try reading these stories independently. This activity is not only fun, but also boosts their engagement, gives them a sense of control over what they're reading, and helps adjust the reading level to their comfort.
• There are various online programs that turn reading practice into fun activities. This can be an interactive and engaging wa

for your child to practice reading and build competency

• Avoid pushing your child to read excessively, as it can lead to more avoidance. Remember, reading should feel like fun, not a chore. Let them choose when to pick up a book, and they will likely enjoy it.

Every child has their own pace when it comes to reading. Reading challenges don't reflect on your child's intelligence or potential. Simple steps like utilizing assistive and digital technology, monitoring your children's reading habits, and fostering a love for reading at home while waiting/advocating for school support, can work wonders. Your role as a supportive parent is invaluable in your child's journey towards reading mastery and a love for learning!•

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dr. Prarthana Franklin-Luther is a scholar and researcher with over 20 peer-reviewed publications in the areas of parenting, child health, and developmental outcomes. She is the Senior Research Scientist at Sharpen.com She received her Ph.D. in Child and Youth Studies from Brock University and then completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship at McMaster University, where she researched cognitive, behavioral, and social outcomes of preterm-born children. Dr. Franklin-Luther has presented her research findings at various conferences and has been cited in media outlets like CBC.ca. Clinically, she has worked as a psychometrist and psycho-educational evaluator for several years, applying her academic insights in a practical context.