Help with Reading

Hi T.,

Reading comprehension is basically, "I understand what I just read." If he doesn't read fluently (speed and accuracy) or stumbles on words he doesn't know or understand, he will have to do the extra work of having a dictionary handy, and making notes about what he read. Perhaps draw pictures. If he has to answer questions at the end of a Ch. read the questions first, then he knows what to look for in the text. These strategies work, yet the student has to put the work in and be motivated.

As far as piano lessons go, Long Beach Parks and Rec. has group lessons for beginners at the tune of about $60 for 8 weeks. Also LBCC has beginning classes that I believe admit 16 year olds. Perhaps you have similar services in your area.

Good luck,
Wendy

T.,

My Mom did Sylvan with my sister for reading comprehension, and really the best thing was the confidence she came out with. She went from being shy and not ready to express herself to VERY talkative and extremely ready to share her opinion.

Also, like one of the previous posters, many local parks and districts offer summer music programs for low costs.

Good Luck!

Tamara,

My kids did Sylvan classes (up in Oregon) and they were very helpful in "filling in the gaps" in their learning.

I also encourage reading (anything!) as a way to improve reading. Sounds simple, it is. In other words, it is OK to read comic books or other "kid stuff"; it gets the kids reading. My kids read like crazy now. My daughter read the entire Harry Potter series and my son reads adult literature now at age 14. Really, it amazes me that he went from Spiderman to Lord of the Rings to 1984 and beyond. : )

Also, I think "trying out" piano lessons is a good idea. You reallly want to encourage your kids to learn music, espeically if they are already interested/motivated! It is wonderful, keeps them busy and focused, and some say it helps their math skills.

I teach guitar if anyone is interested: ###-###-####
(sorry I don't teach piano!)