Reading Fluency: A Parent's Guide

Reading fluency is the ability to read smoothly and accurately with expression. Fluent readers can focus on their 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.

1) Model Fluent Reading

• Read aloud to your child.

• Try and set time aside each day or every few days.

• Think about other family members who could support by reading aloud with your child.

2) 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. 

  
  

Pageticker and Reading Fluency

Developing reading fluency takes time. Pageticker, our online reading record, supports you with understanding the components of reading fluency, which include reading expression, reading rate and comprehension. As a parent, if you wish to, you can share feedback on your child's reading fluency with their class teacher. We have in-built features to support you with this.