Supporting your child’s journey to becoming a purposeful reader involves a few straightforward strategies that build engagement, comprehension, and critical thinking. Begin by ensuring they have books at the right level—neither too easy nor too difficult—to keep them interested without causing frustration. Matching their reading material to their interests is equally important; when children enjoy what they’re reading, they’re more likely to stay engaged and motivated.
Before diving into a book, take a moment to discuss the cover and title with your child, encouraging them to predict what the story might be about. This pre-reading discussion helps set a purpose for reading and builds curiosity. During the reading, ask literal questions like “Who is the main character?” or “What happened first?” to check basic understanding. As they grow more confident, challenge them with inferential questions that require deeper thinking, such as “Why do you think the character made that choice?”
Unfamiliar words are learning opportunities—pause to discuss their definitions and context. Finally, after reading, reflect together on the story’s meaning, characters, or key lessons. These conversations encourage critical thinking and reinforce comprehension, making reading a meaningful and enjoyable part of their development.
source: https://academyofscholars.com/how-can-i-help-my-child-understand-what-theyre-reading/
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