The Power of Parental Influence on Reading Fluency

by Dave Surfleet | 16 Feb 24

Reading fluency is a critical skill that lays the foundation for successful academic performance. However, many pupils need help with reading difficulties that hinder their ability to develop this essential skill. A study conducted by Gazi University provides compelling information on how parent reading interventions can play a role in improving the reading fluency of pupils with reading difficulties.

The research underscores the importance of parental involvement in children’s academic development. When parents actively participate in their children’s reading activities, it can significantly enhance the child’s reading fluency. This finding aligns with previous studies that emphasise the positive impact of family involvement on children’s educational outcomes.

The study further explores the effectiveness of different parent-led reading interventions. These interventions are designed to give parents the tools and strategies they need to support their children’s reading development effectively. The results indicate that these interventions improve the child’s reading fluency and support a more positive attitude towards reading.

While parent reading interventions are crucial, having a robust system for assessing the progress of students’ reading difficulties is equally important. This is where innovative AI software like Lexplore comes into play. Lexplore, an all-in-one service, helps schools systematically advance reading development. By leveraging eye-tracking technology, Lexplore provides a comprehensive analysis of a child’s reading ability, offering valuable insights to both educators and parents.

By combining the power of parent reading interventions and advanced assessment tools like Lexplore, we can create a more supportive and effective learning environment for students with reading difficulties. The ultimate goal is to empower these students to overcome their challenges and unlock their full potential in reading.

Table of contents

• Examples of parent-led Interventions
• The Road Ahead: Technology & Tradition Converging
• Actions for Enhancing Reading Fluency Through Parental Involvement
• Final thoughts

Examples of parent-led Interventions?

One example could be the parent-assisted reading using a paired-reading model. In this intervention, parents and children read together, with the parent guiding the child, correcting mistakes, and providing immediate feedback. This strategy improves the child’s reading skills and strengthens the parent-child bond.

Furthermore, parents can adopt strategies like asking open-ended questions that start with “who,” “what,” “when,” “where,” “how,” and “why” during or after reading sessions. This encourages children to think critically about what they’re reading, enhancing their comprehension skills.

In addition, parents can also set up regular storytime sessions where children practice reading aloud to a family pet. This helps children gain confidence in their reading abilities and makes reading fun.

The Road Ahead: Technology & Tradition Converging

The synergy of traditional parental interventions and cutting-edge technologies like Lexplore could dramatically reshape the educational landscape for our pupils with reading challenges. As professionals, we’ve witnessed the power of AI’s precise assessment capabilities. Still, without the warmth of human interaction and encouragement, data alone can be cold and impersonal.

By marrying the analytical prowess of eye-tracking software with heartfelt nightly reading sessions, we’re not just improving fluency but fostering a lifelong love for reading. The end goal is simple yet profound: to empower our young learners to seize their educational potential with both hands.

Actions for Enhancing Reading Fluency Through Parental Involvement

• Set Up a Routine: Establish a daily reading habit with your child. Pick a consistent time free from distractions when you can sit down with a book.
• Engage in Paired-Reading: Read aloud with your child, taking turns to foster confidence and correct pronunciations together.
• Promote Use of Tech Tools: Integrate technology like eye-tracking software judiciously to track progress while keeping the reading sessions interactive and personal.
• Encourage Storytelling: Allow your child to narrate stories to you or even a family pet, making reading an enjoyable and less arduous task.
• Use Open-Ended Questions: While reading, ask questions such as, “What do you think about this character?” to stimulate critical thinking and discussion.
• Reflect on Reading Sessions: After each reading session, talk about the story and its elements, which helps better comprehension and retention.
• Personalise Reading Material: Choose books that cater to your child’s interests to maintain enthusiasm and engagement in reading activities.
• Celebrate Progress: Recognise and praise your child’s reading achievements, no matter how small, to motivate continued effort and improvement.
• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of the latest research and techniques in reading fluency to continually adapt and improve the reading experience at home.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, the study by Gazi University highlights the impact that parent reading interventions can have on improving reading fluency. Coupled with innovative assessment tools, these interventions can pave the way for significant advancements in reading development.