How to Improve Reading Comprehension at Home

1Check the words first

If your child stops on many words, reading the words takes all their attention. Practice with easier text, where most words are read smoothly.

When reading the words becomes easy, understanding usually grows.

2Talk before, during and after

Before: look at the title and pictures. What might happen? During: stop once or twice and ask what just happened. After: ask about the start, the middle and the end.

These short talks teach your child to think while reading.

3Retell in order

Ask your child to tell the story back: first, next, then, last. Drawing the four parts helps a younger child.

Retelling shows what your child understood and what was missed.

4Read aloud to your child

Books read aloud by you can be harder than what your child reads alone. They build words and understanding of stories.

Keep reading aloud even after your child reads alone.

Practice this in the free reading appReading games your child can play on a phone, tablet or computer. Every word can be sounded out. No sign-up.Open the app

Quick tips

• Use text with words your child can read easily.
• Ask what happened after each page or two.
• Retell the story in order.
• Talk about words your child does not know.
• Keep reading aloud to your child.

Not sure where to start? Get a free plan for your child