10 Tips for Supporting a Struggling Reader

Reading is foundational—but for some children, it doesn't come easily. When a child struggles to read, it can affect their confidence and cause frustration for both them and the parent. But here’s the good news: with the right support, time, and patience, every child can become a capable reader.

Whether you're teaching in a homeschool setting, guiding your child after school, or simply looking for strategies to help your child thrive, these tips offer encouragement and practical tools for the journey.

1. Meet Them Where They’re At

It’s okay if your child isn’t reading at the expected level for their age. The goal isn’t to rush ahead, but to build a solid foundation. Choose books and activities that are just right—not too easy, not too hard. When children feel success, their confidence grows.

2. Engage the Senses

Some kids need to move, feel, and hear as they learn. Multi-sensory strategies can make a big difference:

• Let them trace letters in sand or salt.

• Tap out syllables with fingers or rhythm sticks.

• Use magnetic letters to build simple words. This approach often works beautifully in hands-on homeschool environments but can be easily adapted for any setting.

  
  

3. Reinforce Phonics

Phonics provides the “code” to crack written language. Make sure your child understands:

• Letter sounds and blends (like st, gr, pl)

• Digraphs (sh, th, ch)

• Vowel combinations and syllable types

• Phonics-based readers, flashcards, and short games can make practice fun and effective.

  
  

4. Read Together Often

Reading aloud is powerful. It models fluency, introduces new vocabulary, and builds comprehension. Try partner reading—take turns reading a sentence or page—or let your child follow along as you read aloud. Audiobooks are great too!

5. Make Reading Real

Sometimes the best literacy lessons happen outside of books. Read signs at the park, recipes in the kitchen, or instructions for a craft. For families who integrate their faith into daily life, Bible verses and devotions can also be valuable reading material—full of truth and meaning.

6. Build Comprehension Along the Way

It’s not just about decoding words—it’s about understanding them. After reading together, ask simple questions:

• “What was your favourite part?”

• “Why did the character do that?”

• “What do you think might happen next?” These questions help children connect with what they read.

  
  

7. Keep it Light and Encouraging

Children learn best in a peaceful, joy-filled atmosphere. Use silly voices, let them read under a blanket fort, or have a “reading picnic” in the backyard. Some homeschool families even turn reading time into a special one-on-one moment each day.

8. Watch the Comparisons

Every child’s learning path is different. Avoid comparing siblings or worrying about timelines. Instead, focus on your child’s growth and celebrate their unique journey.

9. Stay Consistent

Even 10–15 minutes of daily reading practice can add up to real progress. Keep it short and positive, and try to build reading into your daily rhythm. Consistency brings results.

10. Pray and Persevere

If faith is a part of your family life, remember: God cares about your child’s learning and growth. Many parents find strength in prayer, asking for wisdom, peace, and patience as they walk this journey with their child. Whether you’re teaching phonics or calming a frustrated heart, you're not alone.

Final Thought:

Struggling readers need more than strategies—they need encouragement, time, and belief. Whether you’re teaching at the kitchen table or reading bedtime stories on the couch, your support makes all the difference.