How to do this
Gather the Materials:
Ask your child’s teacher for the text or topic they’ll be covering in class. This might include a book, an article, or a worksheet.
If the exact material isn’t available, find similar resources or summaries that cover the main ideas.
Set Aside Time:
Choose a quiet time before school or during homework when your child can focus without distractions.
Aim for 5-10 minutes per session to keep it manageable and engaging.
Introduce Key Themes and Characters:
Start by asking, “What do you know about this topic/story?” This helps you gauge their prior knowledge.
Briefly explain the main idea, characters, or setting. For example, “This story is about a boy who discovers a hidden treasure while on holiday.”
Explore Vocabulary:
Highlight important or tricky words your child might encounter. For example, if the story involves a shipwreck, introduce words like "shipwreck," "mariner," and "coastline."
Use these words in simple sentences or relate them to things your child already knows.
Ask Open-Ended Questions:
Encourage your child to think about the material with questions like, “What do you think might happen next?” or “Why do you think this character is important?”
These questions spark curiosity and prepare them to engage with the text actively.
Reassure and Encourage:
Remind your child that they don’t need to understand everything right away. The goal is to feel familiar with the material so they can focus better during class.
Why it works
Pre-reading discussions give children a mental framework for understanding new material. By previewing key themes and vocabulary, they’ll spend less mental energy figuring out basic concepts and more on absorbing deeper meanings. This activity not only makes reading more accessible but also fosters confidence and enthusiasm for learning.