Susan Zimmerman and Chryse Hutchins are experienced reading consultants who have written 7 Keys to Comprehension.  Based on current research the authors state that there are seven keys to proficient reading:

* Creating mental images

* Using background knowledge

* Asking questions

* Making inferences

* Determining the most important ideas or  themes

* Synthesizing information

* Using fix-up strategies

There are many ways parents can help their child improve their reading at home.  The strategies and techniques we use in class are helpful at home, too! You can encourage your child by playing reading games.  The "I Wonder" game is a great example of how easy it is for parents to assist their child.

The "I Wonder" Game is a very easy game to play.  Parents encourage their child to ask questions before, during, and after reading to inspire wonder.  Before you or your child begin to read a book, take a "picture walk" through the book.  Ask questions like: "I wonder why the author put this picture here?" or "I wonder what is going on in this part of the book?"  Asking questions then finding the answers sets a purpose for reading the book.  The reader will have to search for answers.  Children should ask questions about the book, too.  Asking questions then finding answers is fun!  Reading shouldn't be boring.  You want to share excitement about reading.

Word games are fun ways to develop ability to infer.  Teach your child how to play "Twenty Questions".  Your child can try to guess a vocabulary word or the identity of a person by asking questions.  They can ask questions like: "Would loyalty be a synonym for the vocabulary word?"  Or " Does each planet have one?"   Parents can only answer by stating yes or no.

Helping your child synthesize is another key to reading.  After your child has finished reading biographies or any story that has characters, you can ask them to decide if they would like the main character for their best friend.  Have your child read you passages from the book to explain their answer. Or did you notice yourself asking questions when your reading doesn't make sense?