Since my children began with the program, they have been motivated to read..More>>

Sometimes kids just need an extra dose of reading help. Many schools provide tutoring support that includes one-on-one reading instruction.

To make sure that your school has a high quality tutoring program, ask these questions:

• How are the tutors trained?

It's important that the tutors understand the goals and purposes of the lesson.

• What is the structure of the tutoring session?

Good tutoring programs use a lesson plan that is based in the best reading research.

• How frequently will my child receive tutoring?

Students should be tutored at least twice a week, for 45 to 60 minutes each time. Some students will need more.

• Are the students assessed regularly to determine progress?

A reading specialist should supervise the assessment program.

• What types of materials are used during the tutoring sessions?

Students should be carefully guided through books that are written at their reading level.

• Does the content of the tutoring session support my child's classroom instruction?

It should.

• Does the content address my child's specific needs?

If your child sounds out words well but struggles with vocabulary, the tutor should spend more time on word meanings than phonics.

Know When Your Child is Struggling in School

Once your child moves into first, second, and third grade, being able to read fluently and comprehend what he or she reads become critical for future success in school.

Here are some things to watch for that may suggest that your child is a struggling reader.

Does your child:

• Have difficulty remembering lessons?

• Hate to read aloud?

• Guess at words?

• Continue to need to sound out most words on a page?

• Struggle as he is working to sound out the words?

• Read slowly with a very choppy sound?

• Complain that he or she doesn't understand what he or she's read?

If so, talk with your school about getting your child some extra help. You also may want to consult with a private reading specialist.