27/03/2026
Choosing a text for an intermediate reader can be tricky. Things I look for include great engaging pictures and double spaced text with a nice simple font. The topic should appeal to my reader’s interest… in these examples the girl wants to pet sit a snake and the boy wants to be a cool surfer.
Both are topics my readers find interesting.
Most importantly the child should be reading to you and you should be listening carefully (not driving or cooking the dinner!) They need supportive constructive feedback at the end of the sentence. This can be praise or feedback on a tricky word they need to fix.
I like alternate page reading with you modelling the expression and enjoyment of text. When I read the student has to follow with their eyes and say a word if I pause so that I know they are keeping up with me. Most adults need to slow down as we read much faster than our kids.
At the end of a book or a couple of chapters don’t forget to colour a step in your child’s reward chart! Rewards should be negotiated and agreed in advance so that the child knows what they are working towards. (Would you work if you were unsure what wage your employer was going to give you each week? Would you work if your employer forgot to pay you for a few weeks?)
Learning to read is extremely hard for students with dyslexia or learning difficulties. Eventually it is very rewarding but initially it is hard work and needs external motivation!
Also never forget YOU are your child’s biggest motivation!! (Time with you in an engaged state is the highest form of reward!)
