School Specialist

Just Google “Reading Levels”!

If you take a few minutes and browse through the list of age-appropriate and guided-leveled books, I’m sure you will find just the right one to hold your child’s interest, as well as involve them in the joy of reading.

Because grade level divisions vary in so many different ways, it is important to consider what is appropriate for the reader. Children are exposed to many different experiences and you should focus on what is developmentally appropriate for your child, rather than what others think is above or below a child’s grade level.

Leveled reading removes the “one size fits all” approach to reading, and gives each child the opportunity to develop essential skills at his own pace.

Leveled reading book lists have been developed for two reasons.

• For parents, who have requested help in finding books in their child’s reading level.
• For teachers, who have requested a leveled book list or have asked for help in building a leveled reading library in their classrooms.

How wonderful that these list exist! There is a book on virtually every topic, so find out what interests your child, and then make your selection - maybe even together.

One way to find the reading level of a children’s paperback book is to turn it over. Many books include the reading level in various forms. However, publisher designations can be confusing, particularly when you pick up one copy of a book and it is designated as 0812 in a bookstore. Then, you pick up another version of the very same book and see it designated as 0712.

(Note: Reading levels are generally only printed on the paperback versions of books.)

The most fundamental aspect of teaching guided reading is that the children should have plenty of help.

• Encourage working in groups.
• Encourage reading out loud, as well as silent reading.
• Consistently test comprehension and retention. (At home, you might do this with your child by talking about the story later in the day, and asking each other questions.)
• Better yet, spend an afternoon with your child at the local library. Introducing new topics broadens your child’s small world. Plus, paying attention to your child’s interest level is a good way to get to know your child even better!

If you are looking for other innovative products to give your child an extra edge in school, visit Tomorrow’s Classroom. Here you will find the Royal Inspiration Station, as well as other Reading and Writing Centers.

Tomorrow’s Classroom also promotes the Carpets For Kids learning rugs, which can help your children learn. With these colorful classroom rugs, you can transform an ordinary bedroom, classroom or play area into an educational haven. What a unique place for them to enjoy reading!