Homeschool Update

Teaching my oldest son (he's 10)  to read has been such a struggle. He is one of those kids who loves math and science, but not reading and writing. Couple that with the fact that I was a first-time homeschool mom and I didn't know HOW to teach a child to read, and we had several years of slow movement in the reading department.

Every year I use the online DORA reading assesment from www.letsgolearn.com. It helps me to see his progress and where he needs work. Yesterday he took the test and I'm happy to announce that his reading comprehension went from mid-third grade last year to mid-ninth grade this year. I'm simply amazed.

I don't write that to boast, but to encourage other moms that your struggling reader really can improve. I believe the improvement is due both to simple maturity and to practice, practice, practice.  Some children, especially boys, are just not ready to read at age four or five. I think consistent exposure and TIME do wonders for boys who are struggling to read. Find books that your boys will want to read and then give the chance to read to you, to their little siblings, to anyone who will listen and not criticize.

I was convicted about the criticism aspect when I took my child to a reading specialist and saw how she interacted with him. She was so laid-back and encouraging. She was not all frustrated or critical. As homeschool moms, we feel so much pressure to get our kids to 'perform' and make sure we prove ourselves to non-homeschoolers. I struggled with this and I created such a negative enviroment, its no wonder the kid hated reading!

Now, we will not talk about spelling. Oy, we have A LOT of work to do in the spelling department. Several ladies have reccomended Sequential Spelling for remedial instruction, so I ordered it last night. THe first eight lessons are free online, so we'll work on those until our order gets here. Next year, I hope to report that his spelling ability has increased by as much as his reading comprehension.

9:15 AM - May. 5, 2009 - post comment

Praise!

I know that God will continue to bless your commitment to homeschool your children. The other day I heard a mom comment that she was dreading summer because she'll have her kids all day everyday. I just thought, "How incredibly sad!" Anyways, keep up the good work!!!!

Anonymous - 12:32 PM - May. 5, 2009

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The Praise! comment was from ME....

Marinda
I didn't wish to remain anonymous

Anonymous - 12:33 PM - May. 5, 2009

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Great work, mom and son! I am always an advocate for not pushing reading until ready, but you're right about the criticism aspect. Sometimes I think we don't realize how we sound. My son tape recorded me once and I was shocked. Anyway, congrats! Enjoy the victories.

Elizabeth
http://www.lifesjourneywith5.blogspot.com

Anonymous - 1:06 PM - May. 5, 2009

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reading

Congratulations! All teachers need affirmation. This is Teacher Appreciation Week. Thank you for being selfless enough to give of yourself to teach our grandchildren. It isn't easy, but you are doing a great job.

You know even children in a "public"school setting struggle with reading.

Keep encouraging him and the love for reading will come.
Mom

Anonymous - 5:56 PM - May. 5, 2009

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My oldest DD was a really late reader and is also now an abysmal speller. We have been using Sequential Spelling this year because it was recommended as a great program for kids with dyslexia. I have to say that i have mixed feelings about it for my daughters. I don't know if it is them, or the program, but I have really not seen much improvement with oldest DD; younger DD, with mo reading issues is doing the same level and is doing just fine. Good luck with your son. I am anxious to see how you like it and if it is working for him. I am still torn about how to get my DD spelling at a higher level in the upcoming year!

2girlsand2boys - 7:43 PM - May. 5, 2009

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I have several friends who use this and are very happy with it.

birdie1977 - 2:33 PM - May. 12, 2009

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