Many people see reading as a simple skill. It may seem no different than math or science, but it does require more brain power and more ability to communicate than these subjects. The difference in this type of reading has to do with more than just saying a word from the written format. In other words, the child needs to be able to understand what the word means and understand what all of the words in the piece mean as a whole. This is comprehension and it is a critical element for children to develop.
The development of comprehension skills is critical for any child who is just learning to read, but it carries on for years to come after that point, too. Comprehension focuses on the child’s ability to communicate later as well as to understand other subjects, feelings and thoughts.
Teaching comprehension is not often easy. It does require constant work. After reading a selection, the student is asked not only what the facts are from the piece, but also what they can deduce from the piece or what they believe will happen as a result of what they have just read. This type of investigative reading style is necessary because it allows the brain to learn more than just those facts. It allows the child to learn more about the thoughts and meaning behind any piece.
As you teach your child to read, be sure that you focus on not only what the words say but what the whole topic means. This will help to open the door for improved conversations and improved understanding of the written word. Most children need to work to improve comprehension skills on an ongoing basis.