Reading comprehension is more than just being able to read words on a page — it’s about understanding, interpreting, and using what you read. For many students, especially in elementary and middle school, falling behind in reading comprehension can create challenges across every subject. If your child is struggling, the good news is that with the right strategies and support, catching up is absolutely possible.
At PALS Learning Center North Edison, we specialize in helping students improve reading comprehension at every grade level. In this post, we’ll walk you through the common signs of reading struggles, explain why comprehension matters so much, and share practical steps you can take to help your child get back on track this school year.
Why Reading Comprehension Matters
Reading comprehension affects far more than just English class. Students use these skills when they:
- Solve word problems in math
- Understand science and social studies texts
- Follow instructions on homework or tests
- Write essays and complete assignments
- Participate in class discussions
When a student struggles with comprehension, it can impact their confidence, grades, and motivation to learn.
Signs Your Child May Be Struggling with Reading Comprehension
It’s not always obvious that a child is having trouble understanding what they read. Here are some signs to watch for:
- Reading fluently, but unable to explain what the passage was about
- Trouble answering questions after reading a story
- Difficulty following multi-step directions
- Poor vocabulary or limited word choice when writing
- Avoiding reading altogether or becoming frustrated during reading time
- Falling grades in reading-heavy subjects like social studies or science
If you notice any of these behaviors, don’t wait — early intervention can prevent long-term academic struggles.
How to Help Your Child Catch Up on Reading Comprehension
Here are 10 proven strategies that can make a real difference — both at home and with the help of professionals.
1. Start with a Reading Assessment
Before you can help your child improve, it’s important to understand exactly where they stand. A diagnostic reading assessment can identify:
- Reading level (grade-equivalent)
- Specific weaknesses (vocabulary, main idea, inference, etc.)
- Strengths to build on
- Comprehension patterns and gaps
At PALS Learning Center North Edison, we begin with a free reading assessment to tailor each child’s learning plan.
2. Build Vocabulary Daily
A strong vocabulary is a key part of comprehension. When students don’t know what words mean, it’s hard to understand the full message of a text.
Ways to build vocabulary:
- Read books with slightly higher-level words
- Use flashcards with definitions and pictures
- Practice context clues (figuring out meaning based on surrounding words)
- Keep a “new words” journal and use each word in a sentence
Even just 5–10 new words a week can lead to noticeable improvement.
3. Read Together and Talk About It
Reading together is powerful, especially for younger children. Try:
- Taking turns reading aloud
- Pausing to ask questions like “What do you think will happen next?”
- Discussing character actions and story events
- Summarizing what was read in your own words
This turns reading from a solo activity into a shared conversation, which strengthens comprehension and critical thinking.
4. Practice “Reading to Learn” Strategies
As kids get older, they shift from “learning to read” to “reading to learn.” This includes nonfiction texts, textbooks, and informational articles.
Teach your child to:
- Preview headings, charts, and bold words
- Ask themselves questions before and after reading
- Highlight key points or make margin notes
- Use graphic organizers like Venn diagrams or T-charts
- Stop and summarize after each section
These skills help break down complex information into manageable pieces.
5. Focus on One Skill at a Time
Comprehension includes many skills, such as:
- Identifying the main idea
- Making inferences
- Summarizing
- Comparing and contrasting
- Understanding cause and effect
- Drawing conclusions
If your child struggles with all of the above, start by focusing on one skill at a time — then build from there.
6. Use Engaging Materials
If your child finds reading boring or frustrating, switch things up! The goal is to make reading fun and accessible, not a chore.
Try:
- Graphic novels
- Audiobooks with text
- Articles about topics they love (sports, animals, science, etc.)
- Short stories or poetry
- Magazine subscriptions for kids or teens
Letting your child choose the reading material increases motivation and interest.
7. Reinforce Skills Through Writing
Writing helps reinforce reading comprehension by requiring students to organize and explain what they’ve read.
At home, ask your child to:
- Keep a reading journal
- Write a short book review
- Rewrite the ending of a story
- Describe a favorite character’s actions and choices
These activities deepen understanding and improve written expression.
8. Set Goals and Track Progress
Improvement is easier to see (and celebrate!) when you set clear goals. These could be:
- Read 4 books in a month
- Improve by one reading level in 8 weeks
- Master a new comprehension skill each week
Use stickers, charts, or small rewards to keep motivation high.
9. Work with a Reading Tutor
If your child is more than a few months behind or isn’t making progress at home, professional tutoring may be the key.
At PALS Learning Center, our reading tutors:
- Use research-based programs
- Provide one-on-one or small group sessions
- Teach strategies tailored to each child’s needs
- Make reading interactive and fun
- Regularly assess and adjust the learning plan
With consistent tutoring, many students improve by a full grade level or more in just a few months.
10. Be Patient and Encouraging
Catching up takes time. Stay positive, offer encouragement, and avoid comparisons to classmates or siblings. Celebrate every win — no matter how small — and remind your child that progress is possible with practice and support.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait to Help
If you’ve noticed your child struggling with reading comprehension this year, the best time to act is now. Reading impacts every part of a student’s education — and catching up early makes future learning smoother, faster, and less stressful.
At PALS Learning Center North Edison, we’re here to help your child regain confidence, build critical skills, and develop a love of reading that lasts a lifetime.
