The much–awaited ASER report was released recently. It captures the state of foundational literacy and numeracy across the country. According to the report primary and middle school students in the country have made very little gains in picking up English reading skills over the past decade. The decline is visible in every State, and for children in both government and private schools.
Developing early reading skills in children is extremely important because it can have a major impact on their future success in school and beyond. Children who develop strong reading skills at an early age tend to perform better in school, have stronger communication skills, and are more likely to succeed in their academic and professional careers. Reading also helps children develop their critical thinking skills, as they learn to analyse and interpret the information they read. It can also improve their memory and concentration and can help them become more empathetic and understanding of others. Finally, reading is a great way for children to learn about the world around them and to gain new knowledge and insights.
Learning to spell correctly is important for clear communication and the ability to convey ideas effectively. In written communication, spelling mistakes can change the meaning of words and sentences, making it difficult for readers to understand the intended message. Spelling errors can reflect poorly on one’s attention to detail and narks can be reduced for spelling errors. Being able to spell correctly can also help with reading comprehension, as being able to decode words correctly allows for better understanding of the text. Spelling is a fundamental building block for language learning, it helps children to develop their language skills and expand their vocabulary.
So what can you do as a parent to improve reading and spelling skills in children?
Understand their reading and spelling age and provide support if they are reading or spelling below their age.
Encourage independent reading: Encourage your child to read independently and to select books that are at their reading level. This will help them to build their reading fluency and comprehension skills.
Read to your child: Reading to your child every day is one of the best ways to improve their reading and spelling skills. This can help them develop a love for reading, and also expose them to a wide range of vocabulary.
Practice spelling: Help your child practice spelling words by using flashcards, word games, and other activities. You can also encourage them to write stories and letters, which will give them opportunities to practice spelling words correctly.
Make learning fun: Incorporate fun and interactive activities such as puzzles, crosswords and educational games that can help to improve your child’s spelling and vocabulary skills.
Regular check–ins: Set aside regular time to check in on your child’s progress and address any areas of difficulty. Get professional help if needed: If you notice that your child is struggling with reading or spelling, consider seeking the help of a tutor or a specialist to provide additional support.
Overall, the most important thing you can do as a parent is to create an environment that promotes reading and learning, and to be patient and encouraging as your child develops their skills.
By Teena Paul
Founder & CEO
Giftolexia Solutions Private Limited