How to support your child with reading
Why is reading important?
The ability to read fluently and with meaning develops and enhances many skills including:
- Attention span
- Sense of well-being
- Understanding and interpreting
- Knowledge of the world.
The teaching of reading
There are two aspects of reading that we teach:
- The ability to decode print using phonics (Little Wandle).
- The ability to understand and make meaning from the printed word.
Alongside this, we want to develop a child’s love of reading.
At Whinfield Primary School, we use a programme called Little Wandle to develop early reading in reception, Year 1 and 2. It is a systematic synthetic phonics programme.
Please click on the link below directing you to the parents section on the Little Wandle website, for further information on how to support your child.
Reading materials available to your child
- Please look on showbie our online platform where you can access online reading materials the staff have posted as recommended extra reads for your child.
- Your child will receive two books.
- “Pupil choice” book- A reading book your child has chosen to read. It is a book that they may not be able to read independently so may need adult support. It is a book you and your child can enjoy reading together.
- “Reading scheme” book. A reading book that your child can confidently read independently. We encourage parents to write in their child’s reading record book when they have read at home. Please look in your child’s reading record book for suggested example comments you may wish to write.
Developing reading comprehension
- Once your child has grasp the phonics code, they will begin to become more fluent and independent readers. Developing reading comprehension will allow your child to understand and make meaning from the printed word.
- You will want to ask your child questions about the book they are reading which may include information about the characters. Predicting what may happen next. Please see your child’s reading record book for further guidance on the types of questions you can ask your child.
Developing a love of reading
In school we endeavour to instil a love of reading. Children will hear staff reading every day-sharing a class book or poem. Reading is part of all our lessons. Children will have the opportunity to hear staff read, hear each other read and have opportunities to read with others as well independently. Weekly reading assemblies, author visits and celebration events like World Book day and poetry day encourage and foster the love of reading.
We strongly recommend setting time aside with your child where you can enjoy reading a book together. Many parents like to do this just before bedtime. Listed below are some recommended books your child may want to read.
Please see the link of “100” books to read at home and in school
Role of the library
Public libraries provide an important and free service to all.
Please see the Darlington link below.
Key websites for parents