One of the loveliest ways for your younger child to wind down after a busy day is to have story time with a parent, when they have your full attention in a quiet, comfortable space.
This is the perfect time to introduce paired reading, with the parent and child close enough to see the book together. Parents are asked by teachers to practice reading with their children regularly, and paired reading is the ideal way to start.
This works well on a “little and often” basis. A minimum of 5 minutes, five days a week is suggested. Only continue for more than 10 minutes if your child insists! Discussion of the story and pictures during a natural break is encouraged.
Children are encouraged to choose reading material in which they are interested. Children quickly become skilled at choosing books at the right level of difficulty, usually slightly more difficult than the instructional level of their class readers. In any case, the paired reading method allows children to receive as much help as they need to understand the text they have chosen.
The first phase of paired reading is READING TOGETHER. This is just as it sounds. The parent adjusts the speed so that they are reading together in har-mony. Children are not left to struggle with words for more than a few seconds. Following the words with a finger is helpful for flow. This phase is very helpful for children with low levels of reading skills, or where the chosen book is too difficult. By reading together and associated discussion, the child will be able to understand and enjoy the text.
The READING ALONE phase comes into play when the child is more competent and the book is the correct level. This can be carried out in various ways; each reading a paragraph, or the child takes over from the adult who is reading. A signal can be given by the child and the adult falls silent during the READING TOGETHER phase.
The adult can pick up if a child falters, correcting a word which the child can repeat before continuing. Paired reading can continue until the child is back in the rhythm and confident enough to resume reading alone.
This method has proved to increase the normal progress of reading significantly. It is enjoyable for the child, increases the speed at which children get through books, and eliminates the fear of failure.
Paired Reading can also be used effectively in the classroom:
Builds Confidence: Reading with a partner can reduce anxiety and build confidence, as students feel more comfortable and supported in a safe environment.
Improves Fluency: Paired reading provides opportunities for students to hear and model fluent reading, which can help them develop their own fluency skills.
Enhances Comprehension: The interaction between partners can encourage discussion, questions, and a deeper understanding of the text.
Encourages Collaboration and Peer Learning: Students learn from each other, providing feedback and support, which can lead to improved reading comprehension and skills.
Supports Independent Reading: Paired reading can help students gradually transition from being reliant on support to independent reading by building their confidence and skills.
Promotes Reading for Pleasure: Reading with a partner can make the reading experience more engaging and enjoyable, fostering a love for reading.
Learner Support Faculty
