Reading Lesson Tips

By Glenn and Diane Davis

Diane Davis is our primary reading instruction specialist. Having worked with students of various ages over the last 20+ years, she has developed some reading lesson tips to help parents and students get the most out of their time with us. Even if you don't attend our classes, these ideas will help you get the most out of your instructional time, wherever you are.  After all, you are investing time and money to acquire a vital skill.  Don't waste it!

Reading Lesson Tips

1. Limit the amount of sugar intake before the lesson time. You will find that your child will be better able to focus and retain information. They will also be more attentive to the instructor. This is especially true if the student is hyperactive.

2. If the student tends to be hyperactive, try to calm him or her down before coming to the lesson time. Some calming effects are soft music, looking at a picture book, and quiet activities. Some parents have found that half a cup of coffee and milk [no sugar] helps as well.

3. In line with point 2, limit strenuous activities before the lesson if possible. When a student is "wound up," it is hard for them to focus on what they are learning in a non-active environment.  Having sports activities on a different day or after your reading lesson is better.  If sports or similar activities are scheduled before your lesson time, check whether lessons could be scheduled on a different day.

4. Encourage the student on the way to their reading lesson. Help them to anticipate an enjoyable time. Be positive about what they can look forward to in their learning experience. We have charts and snacks, and try to make it fun, even though true learning is sometimes just plain hard work. Focus on the positive and on the accomplishments. Always build on strengths before working on weaknesses.

5. Make sure the student is getting enough rest. Overtired students are unable to work to their full potential.

6. Parents are welcome to sit in on classes. If the student is restless, a parent's presence may help them focus more on the material at hand. This also allows the parent to see what the student is learning, enabling them to review and reinforce the reading lesson at home.

7. When reading at home, remind students of the rules they are learning. A parent can also spell out words, ask their child to pronounce them, and then ask them to state which rules are being followed or broken. Repetition between lessons reduces the time needed for review and helps the student progress through the material more quickly than would otherwise be possible.

8. Let your instructor know of your child's special interests or the books and movies he or she likes.  If it is possible to weave these into the lesson, your child is more likely to be excited and interested in learning.  

Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2004–