How to Improve Reading Skills

Introduction

Reading is necessary for most activities. It is essential to living a productive life professionally, socially and academically. If you're an adult, middle school student, or parent teaching your child, there are a lot of resources available to help improve your reading techniques. Whether it's Shakespeare or a newspaper with your morning coffee, you can improve this rewarding skill--reading.

Improve Reading Skills for Young Children Through Adolescence

Things You'll Need

• Books
• Library card
• Internet access

Steps

1 Step One

Fill your home with many reading resources appropriate for your child's age. This can include magazines, books and newspapers. Make time for family reading.

2 Step Two

Educate your children on how to use the local library to improve their reading skills. Make going to the library a fun experience similar to an outing or a hobby. Sign up for a reading club and get the child his own library card.

3 Step Three

Ask your child's teacher about special reading programs. Many school districts offer after-school programs in addition to the regular reading curriculum.

4 Step Four

Read every day with your children. Elicit conversations about characters, setting and plot to enhance your child's reading skills. Share stories about your own childhood and have them draw or write about the stories you've told.

Enhance Reading Skills for Adults

Steps

1 Step One

Visit your local school district's adult education program. Some reading programs are free (to those who qualify) or are reasonably priced. Courses are usually offered in the summer and during the evening to accommodate those who work full-time.

2 Step Two

Read as much as you can everyday. Rely on a wide variety of materials ranging from easy to more challenging texts. Jot down any words you do not understand and look them up.

3 Step Three

Download one of the files at the National Institute for Literacy website Adult Education page (see Resources below). All of the documents contain instructions to improve reading skills such and basic adult education techniques.

Overall Tips & Warnings

• Constantly introduce new vocabulary words to your children throughout the day. You can center this around activities such as following a recipe or playing a game.
• Small children should learn sounds that correspond to vowels and consonants.
• Pick up a copy of 'Teaching Written Response to Text: Constructing Quality Answers to Open-Ended Comprehension Questions' by Nancy N. Boyles, available at Amazon.com (see Resources below).
• If you or your child is having a problem reading, be sure and rule out any eye problems by getting a complete vision exam.