Understanding why kids struggle with reading
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Expert reviewed by Bob Cunningham, EdM
Quick tips to help kids with reading
- Quick tip 1Pre-read together.Pre-read together.
Before kids start reading, look at the book together. Talk about key features like titles, headings, and illustrations. Then explain key words and main ideas. This background information can help kids understand what they’re reading.
- Quick tip 2Take turns reading.Take turns reading.
Reading long books or pages can feel overwhelming. Sharing the load can make it feel more manageable. Try reading aloud together and trading off pages. This gives kids a break and lets them hear fluent reading.
- Quick tip 3Try whisper reading.Try whisper reading.
Some kids feel anxious about reading out loud. But when kids read silently, it’s hard to tell how they’re doing. Have kids read in a whisper voice so you can sit beside them and listen. That way you can check on progress and provide support.
- Quick tip 4Give choices.Give choices.
Some kids have trouble focusing on reading if the topic doesn’t interest them. When possible, let kids pick their own books. Or let them choose different formats, like magazines or graphic novels.
- Quick tip 5Celebrate small wins.Celebrate small wins.
Struggling with any skill can make kids feel like they’re not smart. Celebrate small wins and praise their efforts as kids work toward their reading goals. For example, “I noticed you read that tricky word correctly. Nice work.”
The process of learning to read isn’t easy. When kids struggle with reading, it doesn’t mean they’re not smart. It also doesn’t mean they’re lazy. In fact, kids who have trouble reading are often trying as hard as they can.
Some kids just need more time and practice than others to learn reading skills. Others need extra help and support to get there. This is especially true if they’re learning to read in a language that is new to them.
When young kids are “behind” in their reading skills, consider their age. Not all kids develop at the same pace. And the differences can be even greater for kids who are young for their grade.
You can also look at how they’re being taught to read. If they’re not getting the type of instruction they need, it can have an impact on how fast they learn and how well they read.
Another possible factor is heredity. Reading difficulties often run in families.
Some kids learn and think differently, and those differences can cause trouble with reading. This includes a common learning difference called dyslexia.
Dive deeper
Signs of dyslexia
Dyslexia is a learning disability in reading. It makes reading challenging. But it can also make spelling and writing difficult.
Signs of dyslexia can show up in different ways and at different ages. And the signs can change over time. In preschool and kindergarten, kids might struggle with:
Recognizing letters or rhyming words
Pronouncing words, like saying “mawn lower” instead of “lawn mower”
Learning the alphabet and the days of the week
Explaining what a story was about
As kids get older, they might read below grade level. And some reading challenges might not show up until later — as late as high school. Kids may also struggle with things like spelling, math word problems, getting jokes, or learning another language.
Learn more about:
Unexpected signs of trouble with reading
When kids struggle with reading, it can show up in unexpected ways. Kids might avoid doing homework or not want to go to school. In some cases, they might act out in class because they’re frustrated.
Kids who have trouble reading might avoid reading altogether — especially reading out loud. That can happen at home or at school. For example, kids might ask to use the bathroom during activities that involve reading aloud at school.
Not all kids who avoid reading have trouble with it. Learn other reasons why some kids don’t want to read.
Next steps
No matter what’s causing the trouble with reading, there are ways to help. Families and educators can work together to understand what’s happening.
Start by sharing notes on what you’re seeing, especially any patterns you’ve noticed. Then talk about strategies to try at school and at home. (Families: Try these conversation starters to help you talk with your child’s teacher about reading challenges.)
Parents and caregivers: Explore ways to help your child with reading, including things to do when you don’t like reading yourself.
Educators: Learn about structured literacy, and get strategies for teaching reading.