Evidence-based Reading

Evidence-based Reading

All children must master the same elements of reading to become literate. The process of mastering each of these steps is simply more difficult for the challenged or 'at-risk' reader.

  • Systematic and direct instruction in phonemic awareness and phonics
  • Practice in applying skills in reading and writing
  • Fluency training
  • Enriched language experiences

At-risk children are those who are likely to develop reading problems because of a family history of reading difficulties, their own early language problems, or low scores on a kindergarten-screening test. Reading performance tends to be stable, so by the time a child is in first grade, his reading ability already strongly predicts later reading achievement.

If significant progress is not noted within a few months, parents should seek further advice. There is always a reason for challenges. Children do not typically "out grow" or "catch up" on their own. Remember, reading is not natural to us; all children need to be explicitly taught.