More Than Just Words on a Page: Reading Strategies for Struggling Readers
Introduction
When we think about reading, we often picture words on a page, neatly strung together into sentences and paragraphs. But reading is about so much more than just decoding letters and making sense of words. It’s about connection, understanding, and opening the door to new worlds of possibility.
Reading is a deeply human experience that goes far beyond fluency and comprehension, and no scripted curriculum will ever be able to fully account for that. Reading is a science, yes. But it's also an art, and all art is inherently steeped in humanity. Let's dig into how embracing this perspective can transform the way you support your child on their literacy journey.
Harness the Heart:
Connection and Growth As Reading Strategies for Struggling Readers
Reading is often viewed as a technical skill—something to master, measure, and test. While decoding and fluency are important, they’re just one piece of the puzzle.
At its core, reading is a tool for connection:
It helps us understand ourselves and others.
It allows us to experience new perspectives and ideas.
It empowers us to share our own stories with the world.
When we focus solely on the mechanics of reading, we risk losing sight of its bigger purpose. For children who struggle with reading, this narrow focus can feel discouraging. But when we reframe reading as a journey of discovery and connection, we unlock joy, curiosity, and motivation.
Why This Perspective Matters for Struggling Readers
For kids who find reading difficult, it can feel like a series of roadblocks: challenging words, confusing sentences, or the pressure to “catch up.” But when we shift the emphasis from performance to meaning, we create an entirely different experience.
Here’s why this matters:
Engagement Drives Progress: Kids are more likely to stick with something when it feels meaningful. If they see reading as a way to connect with a favorite character, spend time with a caregiver, or learn about a topic they love, they’re more motivated to keep trying.
Confidence Grows Through Connection: When children feel seen and valued during reading time, they develop the confidence to take risks, ask questions, and persevere through challenges.
Actionable Tips for Seeing Reading Differently
Start with Their Interests: Does your child love dinosaurs, outer space, or cooking? Find books, magazines, or even online articles on those topics. When they see reading as a gateway to what they love, the process becomes much more engaging.
Read for Connection, Not Just Skills: Use stories as a way to connect emotionally. Ask open-ended questions like, “What would you do if you were in this character’s shoes?” or “How do you think this story might end?” These conversations build comprehension while fostering a deeper love for reading.
Transform Your Approach to Reading
In my work with parents of struggling readers, we focus on creating a reading experience that’s about connection, curiosity, and empowerment. Parents and caregivers learn how to support your child in a way that values their unique journey, helping them see reading as something joyful—not just another task.
If you’re ready to make reading a source of joy and growth for your child, start by tapping into your unique parenting strengths. Leveraging your natural parenting gifts and matching them to your child's learning style is what will help you crack the reading code for your child.
🔎Take the free Crack The Code Quiz and find out what you can do starting TODAY to turbocharge your child's reading growth, without spending any extra money and even if you only have fifteen minutes a day!
It’s packed with actionable strategies based on your responses that will help you create a positive, meaningful reading experience, all based on what you're already great at doing as a parent!
Reading is about more than just words on a page—it’s about connection, understanding, and growth. When we embrace this mindset, we create an environment where children feel excited to learn and confident in their abilities.
This week, try to view reading through a new lens. Focus less on perfect pronunciation and more on meaningful moments. Whether it’s laughing together at a funny story or learning about something new, these experiences will make all the difference in your child’s journey.
Let’s celebrate reading for what it truly is: a gateway to connection and a world of possibilities.
Want to join a community of change-makers dedicated to helping ALL of our children learn to read, and read well?
Check out the most supportive, joyful, and loving Facebook group for parents of struggling readers on this side of the internet!
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