Understanding why kids struggle with reading

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  • Quick tip 1

    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 2

    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 3

    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 4

    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 5

    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.

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