AMDG+

Dear Parent;

It's tough to see our kids discouraged, isn't it?  But there is hope!

First, it would be good to take inventory of all that he does well, in personality, character, life skills, and academics.  He may need to be reminded that each of us have our own weaknesses with which we struggle, but to know also that God gave him his own unique set of gifts.

In regard to reading, a key element to success is to grab his attention.  Does he have a particular interest, like the Civil War, outdoor adventure, mysteries, or going to sea? 

Some suggestions: The Winged Watchman and Enemy Brothers [WWII adventures, from Bethlehem Books, www.bethlehembooks.com], and Devotional Stories for Little Folks [CHC]. These are moderately easy to read [with Devotional Stories being the easiest], but appeal to all ages.

Once a book is selected, you or your husband may read the first chapter aloud to the family, to engage your son's interest.  Then, either at that time, or later when he is alone with you [depending on his comfort level], have him read a few pages--no more--unless he wishes to continue.  If he seems to tire at two pages, assign no more than two pages, daily.  As he begins to gain confidence and speed, add a page.  If he is very discouraged, you might want to read a page, and then have him read a page, alternating pages for a chapter or so.  If he would like to read the book silently to himself, that is fine, as it gives him reading practice.  However, continue to have daily read-aloud time.  [If he does decide to read to himself, you may wish to have him read aloud parts of what he read to himself.  The 'silent' exposure may give him even more confidence to read the familiar passages aloud.]

In regard to spelling, it might be helpful to have him review, using My Catholic Speller B, progressing to My Catholic Speller C.  Do not give him the book; instead, test him on one spelling list each day until he begins to miss more than three or four words per list.  At that point, assess his errors from all the tests to that point. Do the words he misses indicate a gap in phonics instruction?  [It isn't unusual for a poor reader to be a poor speller, particularly if phonics instruction was somehow missed.] For example, does he understand short vowels, but have difficulty with long vowels?  Weak areas can be addressed by pointing out the phonics spelling patterns in those words and giving extra attention to those spelling patterns.

Cheer your son on at every sign of progress, and may you enjoy a Summer filled with blessings!

Nancy Nicholson