On Febrary 28th, 2022 the Ontario Human Rights Commission released their Right to Read Inquiry report. As a parent of a child who has struggled to learn to read this report was powerful – it verbalized the struggles and validated our frustrations. The report clearly highlights that learning to read is a basic human right and that current methods are not working for many students.
How can the library help you ask? We have a really fantastic collection of books called decodable books that are ideal for children learning to read and those who are struggling. Decodable books are books that contain phonetic code so that readers can break down words and read them successfully. Our libraries also have C-Pen readers that scans words or sentences and then reads the text aloud to the user.
Book suggestions for learning readers:
- Book Books sets are box sets perfect for beginning readers. The books are short, focused and fun.
- The Whole Phonics book sets written by Jill Lauren is a great next step. The books are shaped like leveled readers used in schools and progress as a child become more a proficient reader.
- The Lark series by Natasha Deen is a decodable series that is fantastic for readers who really want to read chapter books.
Book suggestion for those who want to learn more:
- Thinking Differently: An Inspiring Guide for Parents of Children with Learning Disabilities by David Flink
- Overcoming Dyslexia by Sally Shaywitz
Did you know that children who choose their own books are more likely to be willing read them? Staff at all five of our locations would be happy to work with you and your young readers find the perfect book!
Patricia is a Library Assistant at the Napanee Branch. She is known for her fun and educational children’s storytimes and being a great resource for any reader seeking out the latest and greatest romance and chick-lit novels.
