Reading fluency is the ability to read smoothly and accurately with expression. Fluent readers can focus on understanding the text rather than struggling with decoding individual words. Here are some ways you can support your child to become a more fluent reader.
Model Fluent Reading
One of the best ways to teach reading fluency is to show them what it looks like. Try to set aside time each day to read aloud to your child. Try and encourage other adult family members to support you with this. The more fluent readers children listen to, the better.
Practise Together
Take turns reading aloud, starting with you. Then ask your child to read a passage after you.
If your child is finding a word tricky then pause and encourage them to sound the word out. If you need to, then give them a prompt and then praise them when they get it right. This gives them time to self-correct when they stumble.
Focus on High Frequency Words
Recognising high frequency words and being able to decode words are essential for fluency:
Help your child learn high frequency words using flashcards or word games. Remember that you can ask their teachers for ideas of how to do this too.
If they are younger readers then support them with the phonics sounds they have learned at school. Encourage them to sound out unfamiliar words. The more words they can recognise at a glance, the more fluent their reading will become.
Keep it Interesting
Make sure the books you are reading align with your child's interests. Whether it's dinosaurs, superheroes, or fairy tales, choosing topics they love will motivate them to read more.
Encourage them to read different types of texts such as poems, scripts, or song lyrics. It is a great way to introduce them to different styles of writing and keeps them interested too.
Final Thoughts
Developing reading fluency takes time. Reading aloud is one of the best ways to support your child. You can also support your child with learning high frequency words and making sure that there are different reading materials available, whether at home or from your local library. By showing your child different texts, they will hopefully find something that they love and in time read for pleasure as well as developing better reading fluency.
You may also like our article about boosting your child's reading rate.
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