Did you know that as a parent, you are perhaps the most influential teacher your child has? As a parent, you can make a positive difference in the attitude and the skill that your child has in reading and writing.

Research has shown that young children whose parents read to them have higher success rates in school and in life. Not only do you set excellent examples for your child by reading, you also help strengthen the bond between you and your child.

Can parents help children to learn to read?

Yes, parents can play a valuable role in children's reading. Parents should read to their younger children, and as they grow older it can be a good idea to listen to them read and help them to practice rereading until they can do it well. Make sure your child gets his or her homework done, and ask questions about what he or she read. These might seem like small things, but research shows that they can have a big impact on children at any age.

How do I read to my child?

When your child is young, you can select any picture book to read aloud. Remember to read "in the character's voice" and to ask questions, too. There is no better way to engage a child in a book than to ask your child to respond to the book that you share together.

As your child gets older, you can continue to read with your child. Be sure to let the child see the words as you read together, and don't be afraid to "talk aloud" about the book that you read together. If you think something is funny, or strange, or interesting, be sure to share those comments with your child.

I thought children learned to read in the primary grades. Why is the Reading Framework used through grade 12?

Children learn important things about reading in the primary grade years, such as how to figure out unknown words. However, there are aspects of reading - word meanings or how to read technical materials - that are important issues for older students, including those who are doing well in school.

What if I think my child has a reading problem?

If you are concerned about how well your child is reading, please contact your child's teacher and share your concerns. The teacher should be able to offer you valuable information about your child and some guidance.

Reading, Writing, and Thinking Together

Helping your child's reading and writing success should involve writing, in addition to reading. Writing notes to your child or having your child help you create grocery lists provides both of you with authentic reasons to read and to write.

For more great ideas, visit:

Parents' Corner @ We Read: Literacy and Education For Life - This site will give you great tips on reading with your child and also offers a forum in which to communicate and to share ideas.

Scholastic Families provides ideas on what to do with your child at different ages and grades.

Virtual Pre-K is an innovative, interactive tool for parents, teachers, and students. You can chat or join discussion boards to communicate with other parents. General parenting as well as literacy links for parents are available.

Kidstart.org - Find out what you can do with your child around Chicago.