Michelle Obama Reads to Children
Reading Tools by DowMor.com is an effort to promote literacy in children. Links to free resources, online and off, are provided to help you teach your child to read. These videos and games include their favorite characters and inspire them along the journey to literacy.
How do I use Reading Tools?
Literacy, we believe and have experienced, can be achieved through repetition in about 15 minutes every day. Start at the level of your child’s current reading abilities. Alphabet games and videos are perfect reading tools for children just starting out. Other children may be ready for phonics. Choose the level appropriate for your child, the reading tools you think will be most inspiring, and enjoy a few minutes of computer fun together.
Why teach your child to read?
Reading is not optional. Literacy is among the most accurate predictors of success in school, employment, and life in general. Teach your child to read and you will ensure literacy is never a barrier to life-long well-being and happiness.
Won’t my child learn to read in school?
Maybe. Fewer American children reach graduation every year. Of those who graduate, many will navigate the system without adequate reading skills. As the quality of education continues to decline for US students, the standards our students are driven to achieve are lowered.
Can my child do this?
YES. Barring disability, your child will learn to read faster and better with you leading the way. Many disabled children will also learn to read proficiently. Not only will you be giving your child a headstart on their education, or help overcoming hurdles to literacy, but you will also be providing the memories and positive association that make reading a joy their whole lives through.
Any rules?
There are only two rules to teach your child to read:
1. STAY POSITIVE! Your child may not respond to reading tools as quickly as you anticipate. That’s okay. Reading can be a challenge for some children. Some kids may require lots of repetition before even simple lessons make sense. Your calm, supportive and encouraging attitude will keep them trying when times are tough. Negativity and pressure will only make a child less interested and more frustrated with the process.
2. KNOW WHEN TO STOP! Some children are natural readers, quickly developing reading skills as good or better than their teacher. When your child has a question and you don’t have an answer, it’s time to stop and get the information they need. Make sure the information you provide to your child is accurate and reliable so they won’t encounter greater obstacles when they attempt to build greater reading skills.
