A LOVE FOR READING
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Does independent reading at home really help?
Indeed, the adage “a rising tide lifts all boats” is apt when we consider independent reading. When we read independently, many other literacy skills rise, too. We have decades of research that prove avid readers are almost always skillful readers and strong writers. They know more about the conventions of language, such as spelling, punctuation and grammar (that’s because every time we open the pages of a book, we simultaneously get a lesson on effective writing); they have robust vocabularies; and they know about the world. In short, reading makes us smart.
(Cunningham & Stanovich, 2001; Moss & Miller, 2013)
Indeed, the adage “a rising tide lifts all boats” is apt when we consider independent reading. When we read independently, many other literacy skills rise, too. We have decades of research that prove avid readers are almost always skillful readers and strong writers. They know more about the conventions of language, such as spelling, punctuation and grammar (that’s because every time we open the pages of a book, we simultaneously get a lesson on effective writing); they have robust vocabularies; and they know about the world. In short, reading makes us smart.
(Cunningham & Stanovich, 2001; Moss & Miller, 2013)
"Reading improves a child’s vocabulary, leads to more highly-developed language skills and improves the child's ability to write well. This is because children learn new words as they read but also because they unconsciously absorb information as they read about things like how to structure sentences and how to use words and language effectively."
10 Reasons Why Reading Is Important (for kids AND adults)
10 Reasons Why Reading Is Important (for kids AND adults)
Helping Struggling Readers
Did you know that learning to read is a challenge for almost 40 percent of kids? The good news is that with early help, most reading problems can be prevented. The bad news is that nearly half of all parents who notice their child having trouble wait a year or more before getting help. Unfortunately, the older a child is, the more difficult it is to teach him or her to read. If a child can't read well by the end of third grade, odds are that he or she will never catch up. And the effects of falling behind and feeling like a failure can be devastating.
Early identification is crucial. Please, if you suspect a problem, don't hesitate. Learn about reading difficulties, get your child assessed, find out what you can do to help your struggling reader, and don't give up!
Did you know that learning to read is a challenge for almost 40 percent of kids? The good news is that with early help, most reading problems can be prevented. The bad news is that nearly half of all parents who notice their child having trouble wait a year or more before getting help. Unfortunately, the older a child is, the more difficult it is to teach him or her to read. If a child can't read well by the end of third grade, odds are that he or she will never catch up. And the effects of falling behind and feeling like a failure can be devastating.
Early identification is crucial. Please, if you suspect a problem, don't hesitate. Learn about reading difficulties, get your child assessed, find out what you can do to help your struggling reader, and don't give up!
RICH SOUTH LITERACY TEAM SUPPORT