My Child Was Read To Every Night — So Why Can’t They Read?

I’ve been reading to my child every night, just like the experts told me to. But despite my best efforts, they’re still struggling to read. I’ve tried everything – from phonics worksheets to reading apps – but nothing seems to be working. I’m at my wit’s end, feeling like I’ve failed my child. The advice I’ve been given – “just read to them more” or “they’ll catch up eventually” – hasn’t helped. In fact, it’s made me feel like I’m to blame for their struggles.

The truth is, reading development is complex, and simply reading to a child isn’t enough. The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) recognizes that reading difficulties often stem from underlying processing differences, and that a comprehensive approach is needed to address these issues. But what does that mean for parents like me, who are desperate to help their child succeed? It means we need to look beyond the flawed advice and seek out science-backed solutions that address the root causes of reading struggles.

In this article, we’ll explore the bold, science-backed truth about reading development and provide parents with the knowledge and tools they need to support their child’s reading journey. We’ll delve into the complexities of reading development, discuss the importance of parental involvement, and provide actionable advice on how to identify and address reading challenges. By the end of this article, you’ll be empowered to take charge of your child’s reading education and help them become a confident, proficient reader.

Reading is a complex process that involves multiple cognitive systems, including phonological awareness, decoding, fluency, and comprehension. While many parents believe that reading to their children every night is sufficient to teach them how to read, this approach often overlooks the underlying processing differences that can affect a child’s ability to read. The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) has recognized the multi-system causation of dyslexia, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of reading difficulties.

The Importance of Parental Involvement

Parents play a critical role in helping their children develop reading skills. By understanding the complexities of reading development and providing targeted support, parents can help their children build a strong foundation for reading. This includes using growth-oriented language, focusing on effort and progress rather than outcomes, and providing opportunities for practice and reinforcement. The Learning Success All Access Program provides parents with the tools and guidance they need to support their children’s reading development, including research-based exercises, systematic sequencing, and expert knowledge transfer.

Transforming Deficit Language and Embracing Neuroplasticity

Traditional approaches to reading instruction often focus on deficits and limitations, rather than abilities and potential. However, this deficit-based language can be damaging to a child’s self-esteem and motivation. By transforming deficit language into growth-oriented language, parents can help their children develop a more positive and empowered mindset. For example, instead of saying “my child is a struggling reader,” say “my child is building reading foundations.” This shift in language can help children develop a growth mindset and understand that their brains are capable of change and development.

Using Visual Strategies to Support Reading Development

Visual strategies can be a powerful tool for supporting reading development, particularly for children with dyslexia or other reading difficulties. This can include using visual aids such as diagrams, charts, and pictures to help children understand and retain information. Parents can also use visual strategies such as visual closure and visual discrimination to help their children develop phonological awareness and decoding skills. By incorporating these strategies into their daily practice, parents can help their children build a stronger foundation for reading and improve their overall reading abilities.

Addressing Emotional Foundations and Self-Esteem

A child’s emotional foundation and self-esteem play a critical role in their ability to learn and develop reading skills. When children feel confident and motivated, they are more likely to take risks and persist in the face of challenges. However, when they experience frustration or failure, they may become discouraged and develop a negative self-image. Parents can help their children develop a positive self-image by providing emotional support and encouragement, and by focusing on effort and progress rather than outcomes. The Learning Success All Access Program provides parents with the tools and guidance they need to support their children’s emotional foundations and self-esteem, including strategies for building confidence and resilience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, reading development is a complex process that involves multiple cognitive systems and requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of reading difficulties. By understanding the importance of parental involvement, transforming deficit language, using visual strategies, and addressing emotional foundations and self-esteem, parents can help their children build a strong foundation for reading and improve their overall reading abilities. The Learning Success All Access Program provides parents with the tools and guidance they need to support their children’s reading development, and can be accessed through the Learning Success website. By working together and using a comprehensive approach, parents and children can overcome reading difficulties and achieve success.