7 Proven Strategies to Help Struggling Readers Thrive at Home and in School
Reading doesn’t come easily to every child. Whether your child has SEND needs or is simply behind age-related expectations, it can be heartbreaking to watch them struggle. At Read Revive, we believe every child deserves the chance to grow into a confident, capable reader. Here are 7 tried-and-tested strategies to support struggling readers both at home and in the classroom.
1. Use a Multi-Sensory Approach
Children with reading difficulties often benefit from multi-sensory learning. This means combining visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities to help them process information more effectively. Think letter tracing in sand, phonics songs, or matching games with flashcards.
2. Focus on Phonological Awareness First
Phonological awareness is the foundation of reading success. Activities like rhyming, syllable clapping, and sound segmentation can strengthen a child’s ability to decode words and build fluency.
3. Break Tasks into Bite-Sized Chunks
Large reading tasks can feel overwhelming. Break reading into manageable pieces—just a paragraph or sentence at a time—paired with simple comprehension questions. This builds confidence without creating stress.
4. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Celebrate small wins! Whether it’s reading a tricky word or completing a short book, make sure your child knows their effort matters more than perfection. Motivation is everything.
5. Choose the Right Books
Let children choose books that interest them—even if they’re below reading level. Interest increases engagement, and engagement leads to progress. Consider high-interest, low-reading-level (Hi-Lo) books.
6. Read Aloud Daily
Reading aloud isn’t just for young children. Listening to fluent reading models vocabulary, tone, and expression. It also shows that reading can be enjoyable, not just something to “get through.”
7. Get Personalised Reading Support
Sometimes, one-to-one guidance is the game-changer. At Read Revive, we specialise in online reading interventions tailored to SEND learners and children not reading at age-related expectations. Our engaging, personalised sessions help learners build real confidence and lasting skills.
Need Help? We’re Here for You.
If you’re looking for expert-led support that meets your child where they’re at, book a free consultation with Read Revive today. Let’s build a brighter reading future—together.