Reading comprehension is just as important as the ability to read. There is so much more to reading than just identifying and saying the word they are seeing. They need to put that word into context to understand what it means and how it is used. Reading comprehension is an essential building block for all future reading success.

So how do you enhance the reading comprehension skills of your child? It is not as hard as you may think. You can do several things that will help them develop the skills they need to understand and retain what they read.

Start By Finding A Connection

The first step is to find something for your child to read that interests them. Having a connection with what they are about to read will encourage them to understand and remember what they read. Many children do not like to read because they find the subject boring. Finding a subject they enjoy can make all the difference in their reading success.

Have Your Child Read Aloud

When your child reads aloud, it gives you a chance to interact with them more about the story. You can help them pronounce words they may not know and give definitions for words they may struggle with. It will also allow you to ask questions about the story, the characters, and even where your child thinks the story is leading. All of this will help them pay more attention to what they are reading and retain that information for a longer time.

Discuss What Is Important In The Story

All stories have important issues that need to be remembered, and other information is just part of the storytelling. When your child is reading aloud to you, stop and discuss the important issue in the last few paragraphs that they read. Pick out things that you both think you should remember and why. It is a fun game to see if you are right at the end of the story.

Try Different Types Of Reading

As your child begins to comprehend their reading, make sure that you pick out different writing styles and subjects and follow the same steps. This will help your child learn how to master their comprehension skills for different styles and subjects.

Don’t Get Frustrated

Use this time as a bonding time. Make it fun. Have a snack together, or have a place where you can read together. When they look forward to reading with you, they will be more willing to explore reading as something fun and worth understanding.

Get Help From A Tutor

Sometimes a child will respond to a tutor better than their school teacher regarding reading skills and comprehension. Tutors have the authority of a teacher while also providing the one-on-one experience like a parent.

Helping your child learn how to read, retain, and understand what they read is a special gift. Strong readers will have an easier time in school in all of their subjects and will use these skills to excel in their careers as an adult.