“Book Bags” are an important part of our reading program. Each day, the children will bring a book home to practice.
When working with your child, please encourage him/her to: Go back and re-read if they get confused (you may help them by saying “I like...). Then have them read Get their mouth ready for the first sound in the word. Look at the pictures if they get stuck.
Learning to read is a lot like learning to speak. You must: Praise and encourage your child’s every attempt, just like you did with their first words. Reread books over and over and over... Believe your child will learn to read. Make reading a relaxed and enjoyable experience
Please be careful not to.... Get impatient or upset when reading with your child (if you or your child is frustrated put it away for another Cover the pictures to prove your child is “really” reading. Expect your child to sound out each letter.
A note on responsibility: I teach the students that these books are precious and their responsibility (not their parents'/guardians'). It is their responsibility to keep them in great condition and to bring them every day. Once they have finished reading their books, please remind them to put them right back in their backpacks.
If at ANY time you are feeling discouraged or if you have ANY questions, let me know. I realize this may be new to you. Even if you have older children, each child is different. Parents have found it helpful to watch me working with their child. I am available most evenings, after school, or we can arrange time that fits your schedule.
Don't forget to ENJOY reading. Make it a fun & relaxing activity, not a chore!