Fun Ways to Support Your Child's Reading

In just a couple of weeks, a literary phenomenon will come to a close. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows will soon be in the hands of children worldwide. The ending of the series is both exciting and sad, as many of our children have "grown up with Harry and his friends.

Struggling readers and those with learning disabilities or dyslexia, however, may have difficulty with the reading level of the Harry Potter series, as well as other popular children's literature. Fortunately, your child needn't miss out on the current trends in reading material. Learn strategies to help your child enjoy popular books.

We've used unabridged audio books at our house with great success. Listening to audio books can increase vocabulary and develop a sense of reading rhythm. Kids can follow along in printed books, or listen to each chapter before reading it without the audio. Students whose reading level is below their age level can especially benefit from audio books as a way to stay current with literature and classwork. Check your local public library as well.

Children's Books Guide, Elizabeth Kennedy has some great ideas to host your own Harry Potter party and other fun activities.

Not interested in Harry? Check out Terri Mauro's suggestions for alternative, more reader-friendly selections.

To seek out choices closer to home, ask your librarian for alternative titles that will likely interest your child based on his age, grade, or personal interests. If available, ask for both audio and books. You may also want to consider film versions available at your library. Happy Reading!