Learning how to read can be a challenge for kids with ADD. Because their minds wander around rapidly, they often have trouble focusing on sounding out words. They want to know what the story is about and get on with it, so they’ll typically guess at words. With that in mind, here are some tips for teaching ADD kids how to read better.
Choose a book that your child can read fluently, at a moderate pace. Selecting books that are relatively easy for him to read will make reading fun for him. Most everyone, including adults, enjoy doing things that they are good at. Reading a book well will boost his confidence and will help him succeed as he progresses on to more difficult books. Also, if he has ADD, choosing books at his reading level will allow him to get into the book rather than become exasperated with too many words that slow him down.
Of course, it is okay if there are some words that he doesn’t know. When you get to them, have him sound them out and repeat the word several times. Then have him read the full sentence again, including the word he just learned.
This part is crucial: Be very careful with your reaction when he trips up on a word. If you say something like "come on, you’re not even trying", it will create stress and his ability to learn how to read the word and to continue on will be affected negatively. Instead, try to speak in a calm tone. ADD kids already tend to rush themselves and get anxious. You need to work in the opposite direction and say "let’s take our time on this one, there’s no rush" and similar expressions. Children with ADD are also very emotionally intelligent, so they can feel if you become impatient or agitated. Create a relaxed atmosphere. It doesn’t really matter if he leans the new words this week, next week or the following month. Give him the time he needs.
If your child doesn’t know how to read at all yet and you’re wondering how to teach him, keep looking for an upcoming post on how to teach non-reading ADD kids how to read.
4 Comments, Comment or Ping
Wonderful suggestions. I love your blog. I’m going to add a link to you on Pure Homeschooling
January 19th, 2009
Thanks for following me through Twitter. I’m still trying to figure things out there!
Meanwhile, please come visit my blog often. I post writing exercises that are quick, fun, and easy for kids and adults. I’m so glad to have some serious homeschoolers!
Looks like you’re already doing a great job. As a children’s author, I make lots of school visits and work with lots of ADD kids. If I can help in anyway, let me know! Jan Mader
February 10th, 2009
Reply to “Tips on teaching your ADD child how to read better”