Reading train - Improve your reading skills

Any recommendations on how to improve reading skills for a first grader?

Hi everyone, My little brother, who is almost 7, is in jeopardy of being held back in 1st grade and I want to help him as much as possible so there might be a chance to improve on his deficiencies over this summer. His main problems include reading and writing. Is there any type of audio program or reading program that can help him with reading? Any type of writing program for math? Also any types of books that teachers might recommend? I'm really committed to helping him and I would appreciate any feedback. Thanks a bunch! :)

Public Comments

1. I teach Kindergarten, but there are several ways to help struggling students. First, flash cards of sight words are a must. These would be words his teacher would have sent home. If they didn't send any home, go to Walmart or Target and look for the post-it notes that have the words on them. These are the words I am talking about. He should practice writing and reading them. Buy a small dry erase or chalk board for him to use. Have him write the word, say it, write it again, say it again, write it again, say it again. 3 times is crucial, but it must be done in that format. Also, he should use the word in a sentence. Having him write the sentence is even better. As for actually practicing reading, you would need to know what level he can read at. Your local library has these books, called leveled or beginning readers. In first grade they move through the most levels, starting with a B and going to J. So I'm not sure where he falls within that. It's important that he not only be able to read the story, but also be able to answer specific questions, and/or retell the story in his own words. While they do make audio programs and such, most don't really work, so I wouldn't waste your money. Simple drill and practice is what he needs. For math, same thing. Flash cards, practice money, etc. You can buy effective workbooks at walmart that would help. Going back to writing, he needs to be able to write stories on his own. He has to pick a topic and write, without help from anyone. He needs to have sight words spelled correctly, and use a dictionary for the rest. Hope that helps!