Understood holds this weekly Twitter chat that aims to keep the momentum going and raise awareness of learning and attention issues. Follow along with hashtag #LDCHAT and follow users @understoodchats & @understoodorg. Experts will be available to answer your questions and concerns and share resources from Understood.org.
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Welcome to today’s #ldchat! This is Dan with the Understood team. We’re joined today by Understood expert and Story Shares executive director Louise Baigelman to discuss how to motivate struggling readers. She’ll be tweeting from the @StoryShares handle.
A1: Strong reading skills are foundational for learning + accessing new info, both in and out of school. Students need to spend time reading (to practice!) to become stronger readers. But those who struggle are likely to enjoy it less, and often need extra encouragement! #ldchat
A2. I think it important because reading gives kids an outlet to explore. Reading (even audio reading) can be a source of encouragement and allow them to learn from role models. #LDChat
A1 life depends on Reading today. Kids want to read but want to be successful at it. We have to help them find their way to be successful. I have see kids get the reading bug thanks to @Bookshare or @Learning_Ally#ldchat
#ldchat a1 well 1st of reading is a wonderful activity for everyone. It is something anyone can enjoy at their own pace. And so.many different topics available. And types, like mysterious or scfy
A2: Provide culturally relevant choices. Choice + relatable content are key for making kids feel interested. If they can connect to the characters (same age, similar problems?) or care about the topic (could be cookbooks if they love food!) they will engage more deeply. #ldchat
A2: Provide culturally relevant choices. Choice + relatable content are key for making kids feel interested. If they can connect to the characters (same age, similar problems?) or care about the topic (could be cookbooks if they love food!) they will engage more deeply. #ldchat
A2: Instilling confidence is key. Help kids feel successful instead of frustrated or anxious. Provide small, realistic, measurable goals. Find texts that build on ideas he or she is familiar with. Offer choices. Praise. Repeat! #ldchat
As teachers it's so important to share the fact that we are readers and we have book lists, like "to do" lists of books we aspire to read. Engaged readers are always asking what's next? #ldchat
Q3. Traditional books are just one example of reading material. What are some other examples of formats that may interest a struggling or unmotivated reader, and why might they work? #ldchat
A3: Newspapers, graphic novels, magazines, cookbooks, blogs... these formats can be shorter and/or more approachable, connect directly to readers' daily lives, provide a wider breadth of choices, and might feel distinct from negative associations with school / books #ldchat
Q4. What are some books and book series that parents and teachers of kids with learning and attention issues should add to their library, and why? #ldchat
A3: Also, other formats beyond text: audiobooks... as well as maps, pictures, diagrams, charts. Many students struggling with reading are more confident in their listening or visual abilities. For more on this, check out: https://t.co/XX2fQaYM46#ldchat
