RECOMMENDATIONS FOR HELPING YOUR CHILD

1. The more your child reads the better. Research shows that the more a child reads the better reader he becomes. Provide plenty of reading material. The library is a good place to get it. Make it a once a week fun outing for both of you!

2. It is alright for your child to read stories that are easy, as long as he keeps reading. Your child will eventually choose books that are harder as he becomes a better reader.

3. If your child asks you to help with a word, just tell him. Don't make him struggle with it. We want at home reading to be fun!

4. Read to your child. A child is never too old for this pleasurable experience with a parent. Enjoy a book together!

5. The more a child writes the better a writer he becomes. Also, writing improves reading, and reading improves writing. One feeds the other. Find good reasons for your child to write.

6. Make flash cards for your child. Let him help you make them. Start with words he wants to learn. Add words that the teacher sends home. Keep it positive!

7. Outside of school it is important for your child to be involved in activities in which he is naturally successful, so that he maintains confidence and a good self-image.

8. Any help given must be done sensitively and patiently to minimize frustration and loss of positive self-concept. Keep it positive! Praise him when he does a good job. Never put him down for mistakes!

9. Give your child a book as a birthday or Christmas gift.