How can I be more patient helping my child with learning to read? [Ep 66]

Why Comparing Your Child’s Reading Progress to Others Is a Trap

Parenting is a rewarding journey filled with moments of joy and challenges. One common struggle many parents face is helping their children learn to read. It can be a frustrating experience, but with the right mindset and approach, you can make the process smoother for both you and your child.

In this episode of the Reading Made Delicious podcast, host Sarah Travers discusses strategies for being patient while helping children learn to read. The podcast responds to a question from an email subscriber.

In this episode about being more patient with helping a child with reading:

1. Measure Progress Over Time, Not Daily

Instead of focusing on day-to-day reading progress, assess your child’s wins over a week or even a month. Children have good and bad days, and learning progress isn’t always linear. Taking a step back allows you to see their overall growth more clearly.

2. Avoid Comparisons: Focus on Your Child’s Needs

It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing your child’s reading progress with others. Avoid comparing them to siblings, neighbours, or even national standards. Instead, focus on their individual growth and learning pace.

3. Give Yourself and Your Child Grace

Learning to read is mentally demanding for kids, and it’s easy for parents to get frustrated. Be kind to yourself and your child. Recognize that the very act of sitting down and helping them is beneficial, and understand that progress comes in stages.

4. Stick to One or Two Resources

It’s tempting to try multiple tools and strategies at once, but focusing on one or two resources consistently is more effective. Similarly, having just a few clear goals at a time helps maintain focus and reduces overwhelm.

5. Consider Outsourcing if Needed

If teaching reading becomes overwhelming or affects your relationship with your child, consider outsourcing. This could mean asking another family member to help or even hiring a professional. A fresh perspective can often ease frustration and help your child make better progress.

Reading Made Delicious Resources to help support you

Download the ultimate guide to using recipes for learning to read and get started with helping your child.
Check out the latest read-to-cook recipes and reading support here

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Ready for more? Listen to these Reading Made Delicious Podcast Episodes next:

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Content Disclaimer

The information contained above is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this episode are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast. Sarah Travers disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this episode.