Help! My Child’s Not Reading: Expert Advice for Every Concern

Are you worried about your child’s reading skills or interest in books? You’re not alone. Many parents have concerns about their child’s reading progress, and we’ve compiled answers from reading expert Mary Ashby-Green to help you navigate this journey. From toddlers to school-aged kids, these practical insights are designed to ease your worries and foster a love for reading.

Question 1: My Child Prefers Other Activities Over Reading

Theresa asks:
“My nearly 3-year-old prefers dancing, singing, and playing instead of reading. She even looks at books upside-down. Should I be concerned?”

Expert Answer:
At age 3, your daughter is developing essential Perceptual Motor Skills through active play. These include hand-eye coordination, auditory language skills, and physical adjustment—all foundational for later formal learning like reading. Her interest in creative activities is age-appropriate and beneficial.

Looking at books upside-down may seem unusual, but it’s not necessarily a concern if she’s thriving in other areas. Keep reading to her at bedtime and focus on making it fun and engaging. At this stage, fostering a love for books is more important than worrying about formal reading readiness.

Try This:

  • Use interactive books with flaps or textures to spark interest.
  • Let her choose books during library visits to make reading feel like a special activity.

Question 2: My Child Can Read but Doesn’t Retain the Story

Angela asks:
“My 6-year-old reads fluently but can’t recall story details. How can I help him understand what he’s reading?”

Expert Answer:
At this stage, children often focus on decoding words, leaving little mental energy for comprehension. Re-reading with different focuses helps build understanding.

Try These Tips:

  1. Make it Fun: After reading once, try re-reading with different voices—silly, bossy, or deep—to engage their attention.
  2. Preview the Book: Discuss the pictures and concepts beforehand to set the stage for comprehension.
  3. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of “What happened?” try “What do you think will happen next?”

Question 3: My Toddler Isn’t Interested in Books

Sam asks:
“My 2-year-old only likes books with buttons or stickers. How can I get him to sit through longer stories?”

Expert Answer:
Your son is already displaying great pre-reading skills—pointing to pictures, turning pages, and engaging with interactive features. For his age, short and simple books are perfect.

Try This:

  • Use books with lift-the-flap elements or simple rhymes.
  • Introduce storytelling by making up stories about the pictures together.
  • Gradually increase story length as his attention span grows.

Question 4: My Child Can’t Sit Still to Read

Sarah asks:
“I help 6-year-olds with reading, but some can’t sit still. How can I keep them focused?”

Expert Answer:
Some children learn best through movement, a concept called kinesthetic learning. Instead of fighting their need to move, incorporate it into the reading process.

Try These Activities:

  1. Make and Break: Write each word of a sentence on separate pieces of paper. Let the child read the sentence, then mix up the words and have them reassemble it on the floor.
  2. Lettermat: Create a mat with letters on it. Have the child step out difficult words as they spell them.
  3. Interactive Storytime: Use props like puppets or toys to act out the story while reading.

General Tips to Foster Reading at Any Age

For Toddlers and Preschoolers:

  • Interactive Books: Opt for books with flaps, textures, or sound effects to hold their attention.
  • Daily Routines: Incorporate reading into bedtime rituals.
  • Library Visits: Let them explore and choose books that excite them.

For School-Aged Children:

  • Book Choices: Choose books that align with their interests (e.g., sports, animals, superheroes).
  • Audiobooks: Pair audiobooks with physical books so they can follow along.
  • Family Reading Time: Take turns reading aloud to create a shared experience.

For Reluctant Readers:

  • Focus on Strengths: Highlight areas where they excel to boost confidence.
  • Reward Systems: Create a sticker chart or small incentives for reading milestones.
  • Use Technology: Literacy apps and e-readers can make reading feel modern and exciting.

When to Seek Professional Help

If reading struggles persist despite your efforts, consider consulting an educational psychologist or reading specialist. Look out for signs like:

  • Difficulty recognising letters or sounds.
  • Persistent frustration or avoidance of reading.
  • Trouble understanding or recalling what they read.

Every child’s reading journey is unique. By focusing on their strengths, making reading enjoyable, and seeking help when needed, you can nurture a love for books that lasts a lifetime. Remember, the goal isn’t just to teach them to read—it’s to help them discover the joy and power of storytelling.

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