Blog
What happens when they go to school?
- 23 February, 2016
- Posted by: Katrina Casey
- Category: Reading
Remember the good old days – the ‘before starting school’ days? They seem like a life time ago for me, but in hindsight, they were the most precious (yes Narelle, now I’m hearing you!).
Before school days, our home was a sea of books. I tripped over them, I picked them up, and I read, read, read, read them! My children loved books. And I’m sure your children loved books too.
Bedtime reading was a must. The requests for just about every title on the bookshelf, went up every, single night. The compromise was two each, and even that was fraught with danger, as after a busy day (and maybe a small beverage to celebrate not hurting anyone that day), I was lucky to make it through one book, without falling asleep!
But once school started, reading became more of a chore. It was hard work, and no longer loved and anticipated. Reading had become ‘too hard’ – not enjoyable, more of a task to get through.
I wish I could wind the clock back and do things differently. Of course I can’t (still haven’t found that magic wand!!), but what I can do is share with you some tips:
- Accept that learning to read can be hard – especially when you expect them to do it all by themselves. Does this sound familiar: ‘Of course you know that word, it’s on the list!’ or just sound it out! For everyone’s sake, just tell them the word and move on! The beginning books are based on high frequency words – your child will see these words again and again. Sounding words out is not only difficult in the beginning stages, but so frustrating to listen to – for you and your child!!!
- Don’t make a drama, if they do not read it independently. Just read it again to them! Surely by the tenth time, they should know it off by heart, and join in!!
- Find a time that works! School is tiring. Children have to be good, all day, with so many rules to consider. Coming home from school and doing homework, straight away – not so great!
- Show the love! Little children hate not being able to do things! So what if they are not reading before they begin school, or are still not reading half way through the school year? Focus on the small steps they are taking, don’t give up, and practise, practise, practise.
- And when all else fails, put the reader back in your child’s bag, and say nothing! Your teacher will understand – there are days like this!