Jennifer Bender

You know your child can succeed -- but have you told her so? When it comes to reeading and other challenges, kids need to know that parents believe in them. Your encouragement goes a long way. It doesn't matter if your child can't read every word. What matters is that she tries hard.

That's true success.

Souce: "Tips for Parents: Starting the New School Year Right," National Education Association, www.nea.org/parents/startnewyeartips.html

Discuss

Your child has learned to read, but he didn't learn to like it.  Now what can you do?  Thankfully, there are ways to help.  For example, you can:

-- Ask questions that encourage your child to relate to what he's reading.  "The main character had to face a fear. What fears have you faced?

-- Be flexible about what your child reads. For example, have him read instructions for a favorite videogame.  Then talk about what he learned.

-- Surround your child with positive messages about reading.  Keep interesting materials around the house. Make time for reading. Show respect for his reading choices.

Source: Cathy Puett Miller, "Motivating the Reluctant Reader," Education World, www.education-world.com/a_curr/columnists/miller/miller004.shtml.