Parent Tips

As a parent, you’ve likely seen your child bring home school reading books—sometimes they’re excited, other times not so much. But here’s the good news: even the simplest reading book can become a powerful tool for building confidence, reading fluency, and comprehension skills.

Here are some easy, practical ways to help your child get the most out of their school reading book—without it feeling like another item on the to-do list.

Before You Read – Get Curious

Take a moment to explore the front cover, title, and illustrations together. This helps your child activate prior knowledge and builds important prediction skills.

Try asking:
“What do you think this book might be about?”
“Have you read anything like this before?”

This sets the stage for engaged reading and builds excitement before they even turn the first page.

During Reading – Encourage Independence

Let your child read aloud at their own pace, and resist the urge to jump in too quickly if they stumble on a word.

Support them with prompts like:
“Can you sound it out?”
“What does the picture show?”
“Let’s read the sentence again—what would make sense?”

These strategies build problem-solving skills and grow their confidence as independent readers.

After Reading – Talk About the Book

Once you’ve finished the book, take a moment to reflect together. Ask open-ended questions to deepen understanding:

“What was your favourite part?”
“Why do you think the character made that choice?”
“Would you like to read more books like this one?”

These conversations boost reading comprehension and help your child connect personally with the story.

Make It Fun – Extend the Story

Turn reading into something memorable by adding a little creativity afterwards:
Act out a scene using toys or props
Draw a new ending or write a short letter to a character
Create a comic strip retelling the main events

Activities like these make reading interactive, engaging, and fun, and they reinforce what your child has learned.

Reading at home doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to feel positive. Even a few minutes a day of reading, followed by a simple chat or activity, can make a huge difference in your child’s progress and confidence.

Looking for more practical reading tips and fun learning ideas?
Join my free Facebook group, Raising Readers, where I support parents of children aged 5–11 with reading, phonics, and home learning ideas:
👉 Join the group here

Happy reading!
Adrianne

Parent evenings can feel like a whirlwind - just a few minutes to cover your child’s progress, confidence, and everything in between! That’s why going in with a few key questions can help you make the most of your time and get the insight you need.

Here are four simple but powerful questions to ask your child’s teacher:

1. Are they confident to participate in lessons?

This can tell you a lot about how your child feels in the classroom. Are they putting their hand up? Joining in group work? If your child is naturally quiet, this question can highlight how they’re building confidence over time.

2. How do they respond when they make a mistake?

Learning isn’t just about getting things right - it’s about how we handle challenges. This question gives you a sense of your child’s resilience and how they’re coping when things don’t go to plan.

3. Are they achieving the expected standard in all subjects?

It’s helpful to hear directly from the teacher whether your child is meeting age-related expectations—or if there are specific areas where they might need a little more support.

4. Is there anything in particular they need help with right now?

This open-ended question often reveals specific gaps or recent changes that may not come up otherwise. It can help you support their learning more effectively at home.

Taking just a few minutes to ask the right questions can lead to really valuable conversations—and give you a clearer picture of how to support your child’s progress moving forward.

If you'd like more tips for supporting learning at home, feel free to explore the rest of the tips here or reach out - I'm always happy to help!

And don’t forget to join my Facebook group for more support!

Adrianne

The Year 1 Phonics Screening Check is coming up in just 12 weeks! But please don't worry, helping your child feel confident doesn’t have to
be stressful.

Fun and simple phonics games are a great way to boost their blending practice, strengthen phonics skills and get them comfortable with alien word reading. 

Here are 5 low-prep activities you can try at home:

1. Alien Word Hunt

Write alien words (like "dorb" or "splig") on sticky notes and hide them around the house. Have your child find and read them aloud!

2. Sound Swap

Change one sound at a time in a word to make a new one. For example, start with "cake," swap the "c" for "m" to make "make."

3. Phonics Bingo

Fill a bingo card with tricky sounds or alien words. Call them out and see if your child can spot them! You can also use this fun spinner.

4. Splat the Word

Write words on pieces of paper and lay them out. Call out a sound or word, and your child “splats” it with a fly swatter.

5. Snap! Phonics Edition

Create pairs of word cards. Take turns flipping cards over—when two match, race to read the word first and win the pile!

With these fun phonics games, your child will be blending sounds and reading alien words with confidence!

🎉 Want some ready-to-use resources? Download my Phonics Flashcards, perfect for supporting Year 1 children as they prepare for the Phonics Screening Check!

And don’t forget to join my Facebook group for more phonics tips, games and support from other parents!

Happy reading!
Adrianne

Dyslexia is a common learning difference that affects how the brain processes written language. It is not a reflection of intelligence but rather a difficulty with reading, spelling, and sometimes writing. Early identification and support can make a significant difference in helping children with dyslexia develop strong reading skills and confidence.

What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a neurodevelopmental condition that primarily impacts a person’s ability to recognise and process written words. It affects the way the brain deciphers letters, sounds, and word patterns, making reading and writing more challenging. Despite these difficulties, many people with dyslexia are highly creative, intelligent, and skilled in problem-solving.

Dyslexia exists on a spectrum, meaning it can vary in severity from one person to another. Some children may struggle with reading fluency, while others find spelling and writing more difficult. With the right support, children with dyslexia can thrive and develop essential literacy skills.

Signs of Dyslexia in Children

Recognising the signs of dyslexia early can help ensure that children receive the right support. However, it’s important to note that many of these signs are also common in young children who are still learning to read and write. If these difficulties persist beyond the expected developmental stage, further assessment may be needed.

Early Signs of Dyslexia (Ages 4-6)

• Difficulty recognising letters and their sounds

• Struggling to blend sounds to make words

• Mixing up letters when writing (e.g., b/d, p/q)

• Difficulty remembering common sight words

• Trouble with rhyming words and patterns

Signs in School-Aged Children (Ages 7+)

• Slow or hesitant reading, often avoiding reading aloud

• Difficulty spelling common words, even after practicing

• Struggles with following multi-step instructions

• Difficulty remembering sequences, such as days of the week or the alphabet

• Complaints about words “moving” or appearing blurry on the page

• Strong listening and verbal skills but difficulty expressing thoughts in writing

When Are Children Typically Assessed for Dyslexia?

Children are usually assessed for dyslexia from the age of 7, when reading and writing difficulties become more apparent. Schools may conduct initial screenings, but a formal dyslexia assessment is typically carried out by an educational psychologist or a specialist dyslexia assessor. If you suspect your child has dyslexia, early assessment can help identify their specific needs and provide targeted support.

How to Support a Child with Dyslexia

Supporting a child with dyslexia requires patience, encouragement, and the right strategies. Here are some effective ways to help:

1. Use a Structured Phonics Approach

Multi-sensory phonics-based programs. Effective phonics teaching can help children with dyslexia break words into manageable parts and build reading confidence.

2. Encourage Audiobooks and Read-Alouds

Listening to audiobooks and reading aloud together can help children develop vocabulary and comprehension skills without the stress of decoding words.

3. Provide Extra Time and Reduce Pressure

Children with dyslexia often benefit from extended time on reading and writing tasks. Removing time constraints can help reduce anxiety and allow them to focus on understanding the material.

Get Personalised Support for Your Child

I work with children with dyslexia and other learning difficulties to provide tailored support that builds confidence and improves literacy skills.
If you're looking for guidance on how to help your child thrive, book a call with me to discuss how we can work together.

Dyslexia is a challenge, but it is not a barrier to success. With the right approach, children with dyslexia can develop strong literacy skills and a love for learning. 

Adrianne

The KS2 Reading SATs can feel like a big moment for both children and parents. What exactly is in the test? How is it marked? And most importantly, how can you support your child to feel confident and prepared? Read on to find out everything you need to know about the Year 6 Reading SATs and how you can help your child succeed.

What Are the KS2 Reading SATs?

The KS2 Reading SATs are part of the Year 6 Standard Assessment Tests (SATs) taken by children in May.
The test assesses their ability to understand and interpret texts, covering a range of skills such as:

• Retrieving key information

• Making inferences and predictions

• Understanding vocabulary in context

• Summarising ideas

• Identifying the purpose and impact of a text

The test consists of one reading paper, which is one hour long. Your child will read three different texts (including both fiction, non-fiction) and answer a variety of question types to assess their comprehension skills.

Why Are the KS2 Reading SATs Important?

The KS2 Reading SATs provide insight into your child’s reading ability before they transition to secondary school. The results help schools understand each child’s progress and may be used to set targets for Year 7. While the SATs are important, it’s essential to keep them in perspective—your child’s reading ability is developed over years, not just through one test.

How Can You Help Your Child Prepare for the KS2 Reading SATs?

1. Encourage Regular Reading
The best way to prepare for the Reading SATs is to develop strong reading habits. Encourage your child to read a mix of both fiction and non-fiction. Discuss what they’ve read and ask them to summarise key points. I highly recommend this free website, Epic! where your child will be certain to find books they'll love.

2. Practise SATs-Style Questions
Familiarising your child with different question types will help them feel more confident on the day. Some common question types include:

• Retrieval: “Find and copy a word that means…”

• Inference: “What does the character’s reaction tell you about how they are feeling?”

• Vocabulary: “What does the word ‘____’ mean in this sentence?”

3. Build Exam Confidence
Help your child feel at ease by talking about the SATs with them. You can give them some tips and reassure them that it’s okay to move on from tricky questions and return to them later.

4. Focus on Comprehension Strategies
Encourage your child to:

• Highlight key information when reading a text.

• Look at the question carefully before finding the answer.

• Use evidence from the text to support their answers.

5. Keep It Positive
The KS2 Reading SATs are just one part of your child’s learning journey. Praise their efforts and progress rather than focusing on scores. A positive mindset can make all the difference!

What to Expect on the Day of the Test

The KS2 Reading SATs take place in school under test conditions. Your child will have one hour to read the texts and answer the questions. Teachers will provide guidance, but children must work independently. The results are usually released in July, with parents receiving information from their child's school on whether their child has met the expected standard.

Need More Help? Watch My Quick Video Guide! 🎥

Want a clear and simple breakdown of everything you need to know about the KS2 Reading SATs? Join my Facebook group, where I’ve recorded a quick video run-through to help you understand the test format, question types, and top tips for supporting your child.

📌 Click here to join the group and watch the video! 

The KS2 Reading SATs don’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation, support, and encouragement, your child can approach the test with confidence.

Adrianne

Reading comprehension is the ability to understand, interpret, and engage with text. It goes beyond simply decoding words on a page; true comprehension involves making meaning from what is read, connecting ideas, and thinking critically about the content.
Strong comprehension skills allow children to fully grasp stories, follow instructions, and absorb information effectively.

Why Comprehension is Key to Strong Reading Skills

Comprehension is essential for successful reading because it enables children to:

• understand and remember what they read

• make connections between texts and their own experiences

• think critically and ask questions about the material

• develop vocabulary and language skills

• enjoy reading, leading to a lifelong love of books

Without comprehension, reading becomes a mechanical process rather than an engaging and meaningful experience.

Supporting Comprehension Before, During, and After Reading

Helping children build comprehension starts before they even begin reading and continues throughout and after the reading process.
Here are some simple strategies:

Before Reading:

• ask your child why they chose the book

• make predictions based on the title, cover, and pictures

• introduce key vocabulary words to help with understanding

During Reading:

• encourage children to ask questions about the story or information

• pause to discuss what’s happening in the text

• ask your child to recap and summarise what they have read so far

After Reading:

• summarise the story or main points together

• discuss key themes or lessons

• encourage children to share their thoughts and opinions

Simple Questions to Ask That Boost Understanding

Asking thoughtful questions can help deepen comprehension. Here are some examples:

• What do you think will happen next?

• Why do you think the character made that choice?

• How does this story remind you of something in your own life? Or of a book you have read before?

Fun and Simple Ways to Build Comprehension into Daily Life

Reading comprehension isn’t just about books—it can be developed through everyday interactions! Try these fun activities:

• Storytelling: Encourage children to tell their own stories using pictures or toys.

• Word Games: Play games like “I Spy” or charades to build vocabulary.

• Daily Discussions: Talk about events of the day and ask open-ended questions.

• Act It Out: Have children role-play scenes from a book or make up different endings.

• Follow Recipes or Instructions: Reading and following steps to cook or build something enhances comprehension.

By making reading comprehension a natural part of daily life, children can develop the skills they need to become confident and thoughtful readers.

If you’re looking for more tips, resources, join my Facebook group: Raising Readers: Tips for Parents. 

Adrianne

The Year 1 Phonics Screening Check (PSC) can feel like a bit of a mystery, can’t it? What is it all about? Why does it matter? And most importantly, how can you help your child feel ready? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this blog, we’ll chat about what the PSC is, how you can prepare your child and what to expect.

What is the Year 1 Phonics Screening Check?

The PSC is a quick, one-to-one check that happens in June for all children in Year 1. It’s designed to see how well children can decode words using their phonics knowledge—a key skill for becoming a confident reader.

The check includes 40 words: 20 real words like “bar” or “stripe” and 20 alien words like “sleen” or “jick.” Alien words, also called pseudo-words or nonsense words, are made-up words that help check your child’s ability to use phonics rather than just memorising words they’ve seen before.

Why is the PSC Important?

The PSC helps schools understand how your child is progressing with phonics. It’s about identifying any areas where children might need extra help. If your child doesn’t meet the expected score (usually around 32 out of 40, though it varies slightly each year), they’ll get additional phonics support and can take the check again in Year 2.

How Can You Help Your Child Prepare?

Getting your child ready doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are some simple, practical tips to help:

1. Practice Blending Sounds

Blending sounds together to read words is a big part of phonics. You can:

• Use flashcards to make real and alien words.

• Make it fun! Turn it into a game where your child “zaps” alien words by reading them aloud.

2. Focus on Phonics Sounds

Spend a few minutes each day reviewing the phonics sounds your child has learned. Pay extra attention to tricky digraphs (like “sh” or “ch”) or split digraphs (like “a-e” in “cake”).

3. Keep It Fun and Simple

Use phonics games or apps to keep your child engaged. PhonicsPlay is a great free online resource to use.

4. Read Together

Encourage your child to read aloud to you. This helps them apply their phonics skills in real-life contexts and boosts their confidence.

5. Reassure Them

Let your child know that alien words aren’t real and that it’s okay to make mistakes. Praise their effort, not just their accuracy.

What to Expect on the Day

The PSC is designed to be as stress-free as possible. Your child will sit with their teacher or a familiar adult, read the words and get lots of encouragement along the way. If they get stuck or feel nervous, the teacher is there to support them.

After the Check

Once the check is done, you’ll be informed about your child’s results and whether they met the expected standard or not. Remember, this is just one part of their learning journey. Whether they meet the threshold or not, the focus should always be on celebrating progress and building their confidence.

Many parents wonder:

❓ Will my child pass?
❓ What sounds do they need to practise?
❓ How can I help them feel more confident?

💡 I’m now offering 1:1 phonics screening check sessions to assess your child’s reading skills and provide a full report, personalised feedback, and a resource pack to help them.

📌What's included?
✅ a phonics screening check (just like the real one!)
✅ a full report on their strengths & areas to focus on
✅ clear guidance on how to support them at home
✅ a tailored resource pack to boost their confidence

Interested to find out more? Click here.

The Year 1 Phonics Screening Check is an important milestone in your child’s reading journey, but it doesn’t have to be daunting. With a bit of practice, a focus on fun, and plenty of encouragement, your child will feel ready and confident.

Adrianne

As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to set fresh intentions and build positive routines—especially when it comes to helping your child with their reading. Whether your child is just starting out or needs extra encouragement, creating a consistent reading routine at home can set them up for success all year long.

Here are some simple, effective ways to create a reading habit that fits seamlessly into your daily life:

Set a Dedicated Reading Time

Consistency is key when it comes to building habits. Choose a time of day that works best for your family—whether it’s 15 minutes before bedtime, after school, or even during breakfast. This regular practice will help reading become a natural and enjoyable part of your child’s routine. Some parents å

Let Your Child Choose the Books

Children are more likely to engage with reading when they have a say in what they’re reading. Encourage them to pick books they find interesting, whether it’s comics, picture books, or a favourite chapter series. Giving them choice fosters excitement and ownership of their reading journey.

Read Together

Reading together is not only a great way to bond but also helps model good reading habits. Take turns reading aloud or explore a book together. It’s a simple but powerful way to build your child’s confidence and show them how enjoyable reading can be.

Why the New Year is a Great Time to Start

The start of a new year brings a sense of renewal and fresh possibilities. It’s a great opportunity to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the months ahead. By establishing a reading routine now, you’re laying the foundation for long-term growth and success in your child’s literacy skills.

Looking for more tips to support your child’s reading journey? Contact me or explore our free resources to get started! 

Happy New Year and happy reading!
Adrianne