Learning to Read: A Focus on Struggling Readers

Learning to read may seem like quite a natural process. However, step back and think about what it's like when you pick up a newspaper, book or label that is written in a foreign language. Think about the way Mandarin/Chinese print looks and then imagine reading it and disecting each of the written forms. This is what our alphabet often feels and looks like to a new or struggling reader. For these readers, 3 steps need to be in place to ensure learning to read is successful for them:

• Step 1 is promoting self-esteem and confidence.
• Step 2 is make reading a pleasurable and enjoyable experience.
• Step 3 is to use a variety of approaches, after all, each learner is different.

Most importantly, be patient and see the small steps as big successes.