The goal should not be teaching a child to read but rather teaching a child to become a reader. One of the most important things to remember is that reading is more than just a school subject. It encompasses far more than just reading a story in a textbook. Teaching a child to read is an act of empowerment. Once a child or adult can read they can accomplish anything. Reading is the key to gaining knowledge and skills.
Teaching reading begins when a child is very young. Reading to a child and learning the alphabet and words are important steps in learning to read. When a child is 2 ½ to 3 years old include predictable and easy reading books in collection of books you read to your child. As you are reading track or point to the words. This helps you child connect written and spoken words. It is ok and even good if your child memorizes books at this stage. Allow them to read with and to your. Encourage them to track words as they are reading. At first they will not be able to match the written and spoken words but over time this will begin to click.
Teaching the alphabet is another important step in the reading. It is more than just learning the alphabet song. Many children can recite the alphabet song but are not able to recognize the letters of the alphabet. Begin by teaching your child the letters in his or her name. As your child learns these letters teach other letters in the alphabet.
Another way to teach reading is to allow you child to dictate stories. A good way to begin is after your child has drawn a picture ask them what the picture is about or if they have any words to write about the picture. In the beginning your child may only have a few words to write about the picture but over time the story will increase. After your child has become familiar with the process try having you child dictate a story. Write the story on chart paper or another big piece of paper. Display the story in your child’s room or other prominent location and read the story daily.
What is the best way to teach reading? The literature based approached is good, because it develops an interest in reading; reading is about books and not just a subject in school. Phonics instruction helps a child learn decoding. I have reached the conclusion that my mom was right. The best way to teach reading is to get a child, a book and read with them every day. A child will only learn to read by consistent practice. So the best method for teaching a child to read is to read, read, read.
The Dee Zone 