Why Teaching Reading May Be the Best Part of Homeschooling
Why Teaching Reading May Be the Best Part of Homeschooling
Watching your child go from knowing little or nothing about reading to becoming a confident, eager reader is one of the most rewarding experiences for homeschooling parents. One of your biggest goals is to help your child become a comfortable and capable reader. So, how do you make this happen?
1. Make Reading Immediately Rewarding
Whether your child is a natural reader or takes a little longer to master this skill, it's essential to make reading as enjoyable as possible. Reading is inherently exciting, and your job is to help your child experience that thrill!
- Use the readers included in your curriculum kit and supplement with library books tailored to your child's interests and skill level.
- Consider rewards, like a favorite treat or sticker, if it helps keep motivation high.
The sooner your child experiences the joy of reading actual books, the more engaged and excited he'll be.
2. Read Together
Just because your child is learning to read doesn't mean his literature should be limited to phonics-based books. Keep fostering a love of stories by reading books that interest him aloud and discussing the stories together.
- Check out the Reading Challenge in your handbook for additional inspiration!
3. Model Reading Yourself
Does your child know that you enjoy reading for fun or knowledge? In today's screen-heavy world, this may not be obvious.
- Try keeping a book with your child's school supplies and reading a few pages while he works on STEM kits or math.
- Show your child that reading isn't just something kids do—it's something grown-ups love too!
4. Record Progress
Learning to read often feels like watching grass grow—it's hard to notice daily progress.
- Consider videotaping a bit of your child's reading lesson once a month to track his progress and celebrate his growth.
5. Invest in a Fidget—for You!
Let's be honest—teaching reading can test your patience. Waiting while your child recalls letter sounds is painful.
- Keep your hands busy with knitting, crocheting, or another small craft. You might also enjoy an advanced coloring or sticker-by-number book.
- Staying calm and engaged helps create a positive learning environment, encouraging your child to keep trying.
6. Take Writing Slow
Assess your child's readiness before jumping into written lessons. Some kids develop fine motor skills more slowly and may benefit from pausing workbooks until they're ready.
- If your child struggles with writing but understands the lesson content, offer to write for him as he dictates. This will keep learning enjoyable and frustration-free.
- Exceptions: We include a handwriting workbook because studies show that writing improves retention, even in kindergarten. Start small by aiming for 10 minutes of writing a day. If that feels overwhelming, begin with 2 minutes and gradually increase. Celebrate every success—your child is developing motor skills and focus!
7. Build Motor Memory
Your child's writing and phonics skills can be strengthened through these creative, hands-on activities:
- Use a shallow tray of salt or flour for letter practice.
- Flatten play dough and use a stylus or cookie cutters to form letters.
- Write on a chalkboard or large surface to engage gross motor skills.
- Spread shaving cream on the table and let your child write in it with his finger or a paintbrush.
- Keep a pencil holder stocked with colored pencils and blank index cards for spontaneous drawing and writing throughout the day.
Enjoy the Process!
You're helping your child unlock a lifelong skill that opens the door to endless possibilities. Reading and writing don't just teach academics—they spark creativity, critical thinking, and a love for learning. Take it slow, make it fun, and remember to celebrate every step of the journey. Happy teaching!