Curriculum Corner

Decodable Readers

Sometimes in the early years, your child may bring home a book that they can easily read and it contains the same patterns of sounds throughout the story/book. This is a decodable reader. Decodable readers are essential tools in the early years of a child's education because they are specifically designed to align with the phonics skills children are learning. These books use a controlled vocabulary that includes only the letters and sounds that children have been taught, allowing them to practice decoding words independently. This builds their confidence and reinforces their understanding of the relationship between letters and sounds, which is a critical foundation for reading fluency.

In addition to supporting phonics instruction, decodable readers can also enhance comprehension skills. As children become more proficient at decoding, they can focus more on understanding the story and its elements. Parents can help by asking questions about the story, discussing the characters, and encouraging children to make predictions about what might happen next. This interaction not only improves comprehension but also makes reading a more engaging and enjoyable experience for children.

Repeated reading of decodable texts is another effective strategy for developing reading fluency. When children read the same text multiple times, they become more familiar with the words and phrases, which helps them read more smoothly and quickly. This repeated practice also reinforces their phonics skills and boosts their confidence. Another great tip is recording your child reading their book and then getting them to listen to themselves, letting them hear their own fluency and expression.