Realistic Expectations
Your Child's Reading Journey: What to Expect
You've taken a huge step in getting reading help for your child. Let's talk about what comes next and how to make this journey successful. Learning to read takes time, especially when reading doesn't come easily. Think of it like building a house - you need a strong foundation before adding walls and a roof.
What Progress Looks Like
Early Signs (First 2-3 Months)
More willingness to try reading
Less anxiety about reading tasks
Growing confidence in lessons
Starting to sound out new words
Recognition of letter patterns
Building Progress (3-6 Months)
Reading simple texts more smoothly
Better understanding of what they read
Improved letter-sound connections
Growing sight word vocabulary
More reading independence
Steady Growth (6-12 Months)
Increased reading speed
Better spelling of common words
More accurate reading
Growing confidence in school
Less resistance to reading tasks
Long-Term Progress (1-2 Years)
Reading at or near grade level
Growing love for reading
Strong spelling foundation
Better school performance
Increased self-confidence
Working with Teachers
Keep your child's teachers in the loop. A quick email update now and then works wonders. Let them know:
What reading program you're using
Any breakthroughs you've noticed
Strategies that work well at home
Areas where your child needs extra support
Keeping Motivation Strong
For Your Child
Point out daily reading wins ("I noticed you figured out that word quickly!")
Connect reading to their interests
Make it fun - read jokes, comics, or anything they enjoy
Let them choose books sometimes
Show them how far they've come
For You as a Parent
Keep a progress journal
Take videos of reading sessions occasionally
Remember that slow progress is still progress
Connect with other parents
Trust the process
The Day-to-Day Reality
Some days will be better than others. That's normal! Your child might zip through a lesson one day and struggle the next. Think of it like learning to ride a bike - sometimes you wobble, but you're still moving forward.
Two sessions each week, staying consistent through the year (yes, even summer!), and lots of patience will get you there. Your child is learning more than just reading - they're learning persistence, courage, and the power of hard work.
The Most Important Things to Remember
Progress isn't a straight line
Reading improves faster than spelling
Every small win counts
Your belief in your child matters
Consistency beats speed
This journey is worth it
Keep going!
You're doing something amazing for your child, and it will pay off.