I get asked fairly regularly about what to do about a child not yet reading fluently or properly, or whatever adverb you want to use. Usually the first question I ask is “how old are they?” This is not to discount how they feel, however the worry starts when the child is too young. Yes, we are expecting our children to be reading earlier and earlier. Some children do, but they are the exception, not the rule. 

If kids don’t learn to read in kindergarten, they’re not behind. This is not a sign that they have a learning disability, although some may. They just may not be ready or interested in reading yet. It’s okay if your child doesn’t learn to read until they are 7 or 8. 

REASONS CHILDREN MIGHT STRUGGLE

There can be many reasons why a child might struggle with reading. Sometimes it can be hard to see why they struggle. If you are unsure, seek the advice of others who can assist you. It might be more than the child being “bored” or uninterested in reading. There could be reasons for their reticence to be reading.

• Developmental delays. Some children may have motor, cognitive or language delays that affect their ability to learn and read.
• Learning disabilities or attention difficulties. Dyslexia, ADHD or processing disorders can affect a child’s ability to focus on and process language and phonics, which can make reading difficult. 
• Lack of phonics skills. Phonics is the foundation of reading, and if children do not have a solid understanding of letter sounds and their corresponding symbols, they may struggle with reading.
• Lack of exposure to reading. Children who have not been exposed to literature or language-rich environments may have difficulty with reading comprehension and vocabulary development.
• Lack of reading practice. Regular reading practice is crucial for developing fluency and comprehension skills. Children who do not engage in regular reading may struggle to keep up with their peers.
• Emotional factors. Psychological factors such as low self-esteem, anxiety, or fear of failure can impact a child’s motivation and ability to learn to read.
• Language barriers. Children who are learning a new language or have limited exposure to the language of instruction may struggle with reading in that language.

HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILDREN

If your child is past kindergarten, around age 7-8, and they are struggling to read or seem uninterested, here are some ways in which you can help them. 

• Assess their reading skill. Find out where they are with reading. There are tests available online for purchase like these. Or you can find online assessments. If your child is in school, ask their teacher for advice.
• Read aloud to your child. Continue reading aloud to your child even as they are learning to read independently. This helps develop their listening comprehension, vocabulary, and a love for books. Model fluent reading and discuss the story together to deepen their understanding.
• Encourage reading for pleasure. Foster a love for reading by providing a wide range of reading materials that match your child’s interests and reading level. Find books that they are interested in, and at a level they can read. If you are unsure if the book is too difficult for your child, use the Five-Finger Rule. This strategy involves choosing a book and flipping it to a random page. If your child struggles to read more than five words on the page, it may be because it is too advanced for them so pick something else. You don’t want them frustrated and being even more turned off from reading. And don’t forget that graphic novels, comics, and magazines are all valid choices. It doesn’t just have to be a picture book or a chapter book.
• Make reading meaningful. Connect reading to real-life situations and activities. Encourage your child to read recipe instructions, signs, labels, or even help with writing shopping lists or letters. By making reading relevant to daily life, your child will see the purpose and value of reading.
• Use a balanced reading approach when providing practice. Incorporate a mix of phonics-based instruction, sight word recognition, and comprehension strategies.
• Set aside time to read together. Let them read to you and you read to them. Move into more independent reading. 

Get support if needed.

If your child’s reading difficulties persist or worsen despite your efforts, consider seeking additional support from a reading specialist, tutor, or their school’s reading intervention program. These professionals can provide targeted instruction and tailored strategies to address your child’s specific needs.

Remember, every child progresses at their own pace, and patience and support are key. Don’t be so worried if they are taking a little longer to what you think should be the norm. No two children are the same. Some will read earlier, some later. Provide a supportive environment, celebrate their progress, and continue to encourage their efforts. Maybe they will need some additional help. Maybe they just need some time and practice but your child can develop their reading skills and become a more confident reader. 

Here are some other posts on reading:
Approaches to reading
Reading Readiness