Jun 22, 2017 by Yolanda Fontanez-Coleman | Reading
Young student reading book in library
Are your children reading the right books? How do you know that the books they are selecting are level appropriate? This is a common concern we hear from parents. Therefore, we compiled some quick tips on helping you and your child select the appropriate books.
Take the time to sit and chat with your child about selecting the “right” books. It is important that they understand that picking the “right” books will make reading fun while improving their reading skills. Once they know “how to pick the right books” then they will be able to continue selecting the right books independently for a lifetime.
Give your child the power of choosing their own books. Kids will be more likely to read a book that they select and that is based on a topic of interest. This tip is an important part of the process because kids become more invested in reading books that they select!
This tip is NOT only easy but is a great way for students to self-assess if the books they are reading are level appropriate. Open the book up and read the first page. Ask yourself, “how many errors did I make?” Use the “5 Finger Rule” when you are thinking of this question. Put up your fingers when self-monitoring. If you made zero to one error, then the book you selected is too easy. If you made two to three errors, then the book you selected is “just right”. If you made four to five or more errors, then the book is too hard.
Selecting the “right” books for your child is the key to reading success. When a child is reading the “right” book, they are more likely to be more engaged and become an active reader. Wouldn’t you love your child to be an active and engaged reader? Try these tips today and let us know how it works for your reader. Happy Reading!