Reading in the Early and Middle Years - Series Update
Submit your questions and I will endeavour to answer them :)
This month’s series focus is reading in the early and middle years of childhood.
I had initially contemplated turning this into a workshop after watching a Substack hosted event on video content. Because I was in two minds about this, I put out a poll to ask you, dear reader, what you would prefer. Unfortunately, I haven’t received enough votes to make an informed decision on this.
So that I can move forward with planned content, I’m going to continue in my normal written format. I’m happy to revisit the idea of workshops in the future, but I would appreciate some feedback on this matter.
Why am I hosting a reading series?
Okay so you might be thinking, why is she writing about reading? Isn’t play and parenting her thing?
Part of the reason why I find myself turning towards reading content more and more is because it has such a huge impact on my own life. When I was bullied as a child, reading was my escape. As an adult, I continue to seek solace in reading.
But more importantly, I see where reading is going in primary schools and it worries me. Reading has become a data point. Library sessions in many schools have been replaced and the focus has squarely landed on reading for points rather than reading for pleasure.
As a former teacher, I’ve met many children who are excellent readers. But being an excellent reader doesn’t always go hand-in-hand with a child who loves to read.
During this series, I aim to address how parents can help their children to enjoy reading and successfully navigate statutory exams.
The series is also here for me to celebrate the launch of
which launched last week. You can read more about it here:What makes me qualified?
It’s all very well to say that my own children (aged 6 - 16) are readers, but it is of course a very different thing to apply this to children in general.
As well as being a mother to three, I am a fully qualified teacher and private tutor who specialises in literacy. From helping children with the ‘learn to read’ process to supporting gifted & talented children take higher level exams, the essential ingredient for me has always been enjoyment.
Therefore the series is based on my experience as a teacher, tutor and parent. It will include personal anecdotes in addition to my own research on the subject of reading.
Who is the workshop aimed at?
The eagle-eyed amongst you will notice that I’ve updated the original title of this series from ‘How to Raise a Reader’ to ‘Reading in the Early and Middle Years’. This is to help you to decide whether or not this series is suitable for you or not. In addition, I appreciate that the term ‘raise a reader’ is pretty ambiguous!
Submit Your Questions
Whilst I have a plan for the series in place, I really want to hear your questions on the subject of raising a reader.
If you would like to submit a question, then please do so by Friday 11th October. The first part of the series will be released next week.