If you’re trying to think of fun ways to get your kids reading daily, you’ve come to the right place! Before a child can read books (enjoy and comprehend them) they must master reading fluency. This allows them to read through the text without getting frustrated and to get a better understanding of what they are reading.
If you have a child who really dreads reading, I recommend playing reading fluency games and the other recommendations below. Try to focus on the marathon not the sprint. This means, reignite a love for reading rather than a “have to do.” Reading is an experience not a chore. You can bring books to life and nurture life-long learners by developing these early reading skills and incorporating games and activities.
In order to develop a strong reader, reading daily is a non-negotiable. However, reading comes in different formats.. Some ideas include:
–Read-aloud chapter books – to enhance vocabulary and hear different styles of literature, character portrayals and perspective.
–Picture books – to visually see text and align with illustrations.
–Short stories – (academically appropriate) to have your child apply the skills.
–Audio Books & Podcasts – to have someone other than you or a primary instructor read to your child.
–Reading games – to enhance fluency and make reading tangible.
–Board games – reading games can make spelling and reading fun and hands-on.
What is reading fluency?
Reading fluency is the ability to read text smoothly – with accuracy, speed and expression. Reading fluency takes time and practice. Once a child masters sounds and can blend letters together, we begin to form words and then sentences. Reading fluency activities can be a great warm-up for early readers before reading a book or diving into a lesson. Short sentences or phrases that contain newly taught concepts will help your child attain and apply the information much easier.
Reading Fluency Phrases
Use these short phrases below in various games and activities. You can break the phrases down depending on your child’s reading level. For example: “Dad had” – “Dad had a” – “Dad had a nap.” Feel free to print this page and use the list below!
Dad had a nap.
The yak had a yam.
The pig ran.
Dad did not jog.
Mom had a mop.
The pup had fun.
Dog is stuck.
The wet frog.
The dog had a bath.
Beth did math with the dog.
Dad has a plan.
Swim to the hut.
The truck hit the mop.
Ann got stung.
Sam has ten frogs.