Struggling to read is common. About 20% of the population have some trouble reading. Since reading is so important, difficulties cause trouble with academic progress in every subject at school. This can make it hard for students to get good marks, and often lowers their self-esteem.
Having trouble reading, doesn’t mean a person isn’t smart. Very few reasons someone has trouble reading have anything to do with their intelligence.
The Causes of Reading Comprehension Problems
Lack of Support
Everyone has individual needs, and support for reading is no different. What helps one child may not help another. So, a variety of supports works best, until the child finds what works for them. Lots of reading materials close by, one-to-one tutoring, and learning accommodations like extra time help many students who struggle.
Attention Disorders
If a child has trouble paying attention, they may have difficulty focusing on their reading. Frequent distractions can lead to poor understanding of what they read. Some students find private in-home tutoring provides a calming environment.
Learning Styles
People have 4 main learning styles: Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic, and Read/Write Learning. When children are not taught according to their learning style, it is more difficult to read.
Learning Disabilities
Underlying learning disabilities are quite common. About 1 in 5 people deal with some dyslexia. When a child has difficulty, or avoids reading, or finds learning stressful, they could have a reading disability.
Reading Struggles – How to Help
Try Different Materials
Traditional books may be intimidating. Find different formats like comics, graphic novels, recipe books, magazines, or audiobooks. Discover your child’s interests and follow those.
Be There
Celebrate every success. Be patient and encouraging. Be supportive when they are stressed out or frustrated.
Listening Skills
Listening is huge for reading skills. Listening helps fluency and phonetics. Play audiobooks, read aloud together or listen to podcasts. Discuss what you hear and encourage thinking about the topic for greater comprehension.
Consider One-to-One or Small Group Tutoring
Reading tutors understand the challenges your child faces. A tutor can help build confidence as your child improves their reading comprehension.
For more information about how Class In Session can help your child improve their reading, CONTACT US today.
