Posts by pwsbuilder
Sneaky Ways To Get Your Learner to Read
Be honest, have you ever had a kid avoid reading with the same horror as eating their most despised vegetable? And being even MORE honest, were you THAT kid? When raising struggling readers, we have to remind ourselves that reading is a skill that takes practice. And although heading to the library or our favorite…
Read MoreNot just a Race but a Marathon
Perspective from Another Mom I think there is nothing more overwhelming than parenting. I remember thinking when our first daughter was born, “If I can just get her through the first six months, everything will be so much easier!” Ha! As they grow, we see new struggles, with skills, discipline, relationships…the list goes through the…
Read MoreThe Benefits of using the Audible and Kindle apps together
Full disclosure? I love real hold-in-your-hand physical books. I think there are huge positives to having students carry them, feel them and turn actual pages. That being said…There are several advantages to using audio-books and eReaders and if you have chosen the Audible and Kindle apps – I gotta tell ya, they do some nice things. I have…
Read MoreThe Truth As Told by Mason Buttle
This gem was handed to me by a wonderful librarian this winter. The story has depth, so I would recommend it for 5-8 graders. However, the book level is lower for our struggling readers (BL 2.7) but is a solid chapter book at 333 pages. The first thing that makes this book so incredible…
Read MoreTips for Reluctant Readers
Belle in the Bookstore scene from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Reluctant readers come in all shapes and ages. Some students will always look at books with trepidation while others will attack them with delight once they feel comfortable with the task of decoding. Regardless, getting those learners started down the path of independent…
Read MoreHandwriting – Sometimes the right pencil CAN make a Difference
A few of my top choices How is it so many kids struggle with Dysgraphia and yet there are so few options out there? Our kids are the ones who have some kind of “over-thumb grip” which makes writing so much more difficult. Every so often – I find a new option that really makes…
Read MoreGreat Graphic Novel Picks
Graphic novels Lori – really? I’m sure there are a few of you who shake your heads at the idea. And honestly, so did I until recently, but here’s what I’ve learned. Graphic novels (comic books in MY day) have come a long way and can be an easier option for those reluctant readers out…
Read MoreAdventure/Fantasy Book List For 9-14 Year Olds
Dyslexic students are looking for books that “start right away”. They need the action at the beginning instead of two chapters of backstory before things get started. Here are some adventure books that include something “extra” – could be magic or monsters, superheros or talking animals. If the story is fast paced enough, it’s worth…
Read MoreBooklist For Animal Loving Readers
One of our Success stories is Sarah and her love of animals was the hook when it came to getting her to jump into chapter books. The following titles are ones she has loved as a 3rd/4th grader or that I would recommend for that age. The action is pretty quick and there is a…
Read MoreSummer Prep for your Reading Intervention
Yes – the snow is just melting, and we haven’t seen more than a handful of robins, but it’s time to start thinking about our summer plans for our dyslexic students. You may be thinking, “Seriously??? I haven’t even gotten this kid through the school year and your pressuring me to think of the NEXT…
Read More