Reading

Learning to read is a magical thing. Some children seem to read almost automatically, while others learn through a step by step procedure. And just like walking and talking, every child learns to read on their own time schedule.

Reading is part of almost everything we do. It is part of everyday life. Reading does not just happen when a book is taken off the shelf; nor does learning to read. . We read for a variety of purposes: to gain information, for enjoyment, for instruction. We read to know which bathroom to use, to know what cereal we are eating in the morning, and where and how to drive. It is the same thing in the classroom. The children unravel the mysteries of reading by reading signs, reading boxes, and reading instructions. Singing songs, saying rhymes, listening to poems and stories all help children become competent readers as they experience the sound and rhythm of language. Having conversations, listening and telling stories help build children's communication skills and expand their vocabulary, which helps them become readers.

In our class, children are at all different stages of learning to read. Some children are a the beginning stages of reading. They can read the names of family members and a few familiar words like STOP. Other children, have very developed reading skills and are competent, independent readers. But, no matter what level of reading the children are at, there are ways for them to successfully participate in reading activities.

During the day there are many opportunities to read and listen to stories. I read to the children, they listen to books on tapes, they read independently and to each other.

The best way to support your child's reading at home is to takes time out each day to read to your children and have your children read to you.