5 tips for starting your child's reading journey, with Phonics from Robot Reg.
Learning to read is an essential skill for children. It helps them access knowledge and opens up a world of possibilities for them. But teaching a child to read can be a daunting task for many parents. Especially if your child doesn't already have a love of books and prefers other kinds of play.
Fortunately, there are many resources available to help parents guide their children in learning to read. There are plenty of tools available to make the process easier and more fun for both the parent and the child. The team from Phonics with Robot Reg, children's activity classes for 3 months-6 years, share their top tips for starting your child's reading journey.
1. Make reading their favourite part of the day
"When my children were small we used to set aside a little bit of time most days for a "Story Snuggle" when they would choose a couple of books each and we'd cozy up on the sofa under a blanket to read them all together. It was a really lovely way to reset during our busy day and we looked forward to that special bonding time together talking about the books and having a cuddle!" says Sam Aldridge, who teaches Phonics with Robot Reg Classes in Thatcham, Newbury & Calcot
2. Surround your child with language
Many children find a phonics approach useful when they're also learning to speak. With speech delay on the rise, Anna Young who teaches classes in Keynsham and South Bristol shares her advice if you're trying to help a child with speech delay to read.
"Surround your child in a language-rich environment, talk and chat with your child from the very beginning even if you feel a bit daft! Tune in and listen to your child. If they say something that is unclear or missing an initial sound, (for example) ‘ed ar’ repeat back to them ‘that’s right that car is red."
3. Opt for books with lots of repetition
"Julia Donaldson books are an absolute joy to read aloud! Room on the Broom is our favourite as there are lots of characters to give different voices to, and the repetition quickly encourages the children to join in with telling the story!" adds Sam Aldridge.
4. Don't pressure your child to read
"Reading should be fun, rather than feeling pressured or forced! Make it a natural part of your day in a way that works for them. For example, get comfy - you don't have to read sitting on chairs upright at a table. The sofa or bed works fine! When your child is reading to you, make sure you make it a positive experience. Show active listening skills, and support them to sound out words," says Theresa Batey, of Phonics with Robot Reg Central Bedfordshire.
This is why praise is so important. "Use positive praise, if they make a mistake never say "no" say "nearly!" or "so close !" Model the correct word. says Kat Warne, of Phonics with Robot Reg Sevenoaks.
5. Keep talking to your child as they read
Finally, make reading interactive and ask questions throughout.
"Here are some prompts and ideas to talk about as you read: What do you think this book is about? What do you think will happen next? I wonder why...? What was your favorite part of the story? Which bit did you like and why? says Theresa Batey, of Phonics with Robot Reg Central Bedfordshire,
For more about Phonics with Robot Reg or to find your nearest class visit: https://www.robotreg.co.uk/
