Hi there! 👋 I’m a book-loving parent who understands the importance of developing comprehension skills in young children. As parents, it’s our responsibility to help them understand and interpret what they’re reading. In this blog, I’ll share some useful tips and tricks to help you develop your child’s comprehension skills while having fun at the same time. Let’s get started! 🚀

1. Read together and discuss

Reading with your child is the foundation to developing their comprehension skills. Reading storybooks together and discussing key elements in the story - like the plot, characters, and themes - can help young readers understand and interpret what they’re reading.

👉🏼 The next time you read with your child, try asking questions about the story. For instance, who was the main character? What was the problem they were trying to solve? What lessons did they learn?

A parent and child reading together

2. Encourage critical thinking

Critical thinking is an essential skill for young children to possess. Encouraging your child to think critically about what they’re reading can help them develop a deeper understanding of the story and its themes.

👉🏼 After reading a storybook, try asking your child to think of different ways the story could have ended. For instance, what would have happened if the main character made a different decision? What would have happened if the story were set in a different time or place?

A child deep in thinking while reading a book

3. Use visuals

Visual aids can help children better understand and remember what they’re reading. Using images, diagrams, and other visual aids can help children visualize key elements in the story, making it easier for them to comprehend.

👉🏼 Try finding images online that match with the story and discussing them with your child. You can ask them to point out certain elements in the image that relate to the story.

A parent and child using visuals to understand a story

4. Encourage storytelling

Encouraging your child to create their own stories can also help them develop their comprehension skills. This can help them understand the different elements that make up a story and how to structure their own stories.

👉🏼 Encourage your child to create their own stories by giving them prompts and asking them questions. For instance, you could ask them what they would do in a certain situation or how they would solve a problem.

A child writing a story while using their imagination

5. Build vocabulary

Understanding the meanings of words is crucial to developing comprehension skills. Building vocabulary can help children understand and interpret the language used in storybooks, making it easier for them to comprehend what they’re reading.

👉🏼 Encourage your child to learn new words by using flashcards or playing word games. You could also challenge them to use new words in their writing or conversation.

A child learning new words while playing word games

By implementing these tips and tricks, you can help enhance your child’s comprehension skills and foster a love for reading. Remember, developing comprehension skills is a journey that takes time and patience. With consistent practice, your child will develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the stories they read. Happy reading! 📖🤗

A family bonding over reading together