Is Your Child Struggling with Comprehension? Here Are Some Possible Reasons…
Reading Comprehension is more than just recognizing words on a page—it’s about understanding, interpreting, and applying what is read. If your child is struggling with Comprehension, it can be frustrating for both of you. Let’s explore some possible reasons behind the struggle and what you can do to help.
1. Weak Decoding Skills
If a child struggles to sound out words, it can slow down their reading, making it harder to understand the overall meaning of a sentence. This is often linked to gaps in phonics knowledge or difficulty recognizing sight words.
What can a parent do:
Encourage daily reading with books that match their level.
Use phonics-based reading programmes.
Play word games to reinforce letter sounds and blends.
2. Limited Vocabulary
A child with limited Vocabulary may struggle to understand new words, making Comprehension difficult. If they frequently stop to ask, "What does this word mean?" they may lose track of the story’s message.
What can a parent do:
Introduce new words in everyday conversations.
Use picture books to help connect words to images.
Make reading interactive by discussing unfamiliar words.
3. Lack of Background Knowledge/Experience
Children often struggle with Comprehension if they are unfamiliar with the topic. Without prior knowledge, they may find it hard to make connections and draw meaning from what they read.
What can a parent do:
Expose your child to different experiences—trips, documentaries, and discussions.
Choose books related to their interests.
Encourage curiosity by asking open-ended questions about the world around them.
4. Difficulty with Focus and Attention
Reading requires sustained attention, and distractions can break comprehension. Some children may rush through text without truly absorbing what they read.
What can a parent do:
Create a quiet, distraction-free reading space.
Encourage active reading by asking questions before, during, and after reading.
Use audiobooks alongside printed books to improve engagement.
5. Weak Critical Thinking Skills
Comprehension is about Making Inferences, Drawing Conclusions, and Predicting Outcomes. If a child struggles with these skills, their Comprehension may suffer.
What can a parent do:
Ask questions that go beyond the text, like “Why do you think the character did that?”
Encourage storytelling where they predict what happens next.
Use comic strips or short stories to practise sequencing events.
6. Reading Anxiety or Low Confidence
Some children feel overwhelmed by reading and doubt their abilities. If they constantly struggle, they may start avoiding books altogether.
What can a parent do:
Praise effort, not just results.
Let them choose books they enjoy.
Read together to build confidence.
Every child learns at his/her own pace, and struggles with Comprehension are not signs of failure. With patience, practice, and the right strategies, your child can develop strong reading skills. If challenges persist, consider seeking additional support from a teacher or literacy specialist.