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Supporting Children Who Struggle with Reading: Practical Strategies for Parents
A structured overview of what credible sources and parent perspectives commonly say about this topic.
Quick answer
Helping a child who struggles with reading involves creating a positive, low-pressure reading routine, using age-appropriate books, and partnering with teachers or specialists to address learning differences. Options include structured reading programs like Orton-Gillingham or Wilson Reading System, and support services such as tutoring or speech-language therapy.
At a glance
Things to try now
What to do now
- 11. Set a consistent daily reading time that is calm and free from distractions.
- 22. Select books that are engaging and appropriate for your child's current reading level.
- 33. Observe and note specific areas where your child struggles (e.g., sounding out words, comprehension) to discuss with their teacher.
What to say
- “I love hearing you read; let's take our time and enjoy the story together.”
- “It's okay to find some words tricky — we can figure them out together.”
- “What do you think will happen next in the story?”
What to practice consistently
- Establishing a nightly reading routine that includes both reading aloud and listening to stories.
- Encouraging your child to talk about the stories to build comprehension and vocabulary.
- Using positive reinforcement focused on effort and progress rather than just accuracy.
What to avoid
- Avoid pressuring your child to read perfectly or quickly, which can increase anxiety.
- Avoid using reading as a punishment or associating it with negative experiences.
- Avoid ignoring signs of frustration or anxiety related to reading tasks.
These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.
What this usually involves
- Daily reading aloud sessions with the child to build vocabulary and comprehension
- Using phonics-based programs such as Orton-Gillingham or Wilson Reading System that focus on decoding skills
- Incorporating multisensory learning techniques to engage different senses during reading
- Collaborating with teachers to monitor progress and implement accommodations like extra time or simplified texts
- Addressing related issues such as attention difficulties or anxiety that can impact reading
- Seeking evaluation by specialists if learning disabilities like dyslexia are suspected
Related questions
Signs include difficulty decoding words, slow or inaccurate reading, and trouble spelling; a formal evaluation by a specialist is needed for diagnosis.
Phonics-based programs like Orton-Gillingham and Wilson Reading System are widely used and research-supported for children with reading difficulties.
Choose books that interest your child, celebrate effort, create a positive reading environment, and avoid pressure or negative associations with reading.
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From around the web
Helping Your Child Learn to Read
Guidance on supporting reading development and recognizing when to seek help.
American Academy of Pediatrics
Supporting Children with Learning and Attention Issues
Resources and strategies for parents of children struggling with reading and learning differences.
Understood.org
Reading and Literacy Development
Information on literacy milestones and tips to support reading skills.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Helping Kids Manage School Anxiety
Advice on addressing anxiety that can affect learning and reading.
Child Mind Institute