July 6, 2023

There is an urgent need to address basic reading skills for our youngest and newest readers specifically Kindergartners and First Graders. This is the time when these skills should be mastered for children to feel confident and successful. Reading affects everything in the success of a child’s early school career.

As an early childhood teacher with over three decades of experience in teaching reading, I am witnessing a concerning trend that continues to
trouble me deeply. Far too many children are finishing Kindergarten and First Grade without mastering the basic reading skills they need to thrive
academically. In today’s society, where literacy plays an indispensable role, it is time to acknowledge that parents cannot solely rely on schools to
ensure their children become proficient readers. It is a collective responsibility to empower parents in supporting their children’s reading
journey.

Schools and teachers play an essential role in laying the foundation for reading skills. Dedicated educators strive to create engaging
environments, implement effective instructional strategies, and provide individualized support. However, the reality is that teachers have limited
time and resources to cater to the unique needs of each student. The burden of addressing the reading crisis cannot rest solely on their
shoulders. We must shift our focus to a collaborative approach that actively involves parents in their children’s literacy development.
Parents are the first and most influential teachers in a child’s life. They possess a unique opportunity to foster a love for reading and provide
valuable support outside the classroom. It is crucial for parents to understand the significance of their involvement and take an active role in
nurturing their child’s reading skills.

• Creating a Literacy-Rich Environment: Parents can transform their homes into literacy-rich environments. By surrounding children with
  books, magazines, and other reading materials, they cultivate a culture of reading. Regular family reading sessions, where parents
  and children share stories, not only enhance bonding but also instill a deep appreciation for literature.
• Reading Together: Parents must dedicate time each day to read with their children. This shared Read Aloud experience exposes children to
  new vocabulary, improves comprehension, and strengthens their fluency. Additionally, discussing the content, asking questions, and
  encouraging critical thinking during reading sessions enriches the learning process.
• Setting Realistic Expectations: It is crucial for parents to set realistic expectations and avoid undue pressure. Each child progresses at
  their own pace, and it is important to celebrate small victories along the way. Encouragement and positive reinforcement go a long way in
  building a child’s confidence and motivation to read.
• Communication with Teachers: Establishing open lines of communication with teachers is vital. Parents should actively seek
  feedback, discuss concerns, and collaborate with teachers to create personalized strategies that address their child’s specific reading
  needs. By working together, parents and teachers can ensure a consistent and supportive learning environment.
• Access to Resources and Support: Parents should take advantage of the wealth of resources available to support their child’s reading
  journey. Public libraries, online platforms, and community programs offer a plethora of reading materials, educational apps, and
  workshops designed to enhance reading skills. Parents must actively seek out and utilize these resources to supplement their child’s
  learning.

The alarming number of children struggling with basic reading skills demands urgent attention. While schools and teachers have a pivotal role,
it is unrealistic to expect them to solely resolve this issue. Parents must rise to the occasion and actively participate in their child’s reading
development.
By creating literacy-rich environments, reading together, setting realistic expectations, fostering communication with teachers, and accessing
resources, parents can make a profound difference in their child’s reading abilities. Let us embrace a collaborative approach that empowers parents
and ensures that every child has the opportunity to master the foundational skills necessary for a bright future.