How to Support a Struggling Reader at Home

Watching your child struggle with reading can feel heartbreaking. But the truth is, many children go through phases of difficulty—and your support can make a major difference. Learning how to support a struggling reader at home builds confidence and creates a safe place to grow.

Start with empathy. Reading difficulties often lead to frustration, embarrassment, or avoidance. Let your child know it’s okay to find reading hard, and that improvement comes with time and effort.

Break reading into manageable chunks. Use books with short chapters, larger fonts, or high-interest topics. Comic-style books or books with strong visual elements are excellent tools. Owl Post Books often includes books that meet kids where they are, helping them feel successful while they build skills.

Practice paired reading. Take turns reading pages or sentences. When kids hear fluent reading, they gain context and rhythm. Celebrate their wins—even finishing a few pages counts.

Finally, avoid comparison. Every reader progresses at their own pace. Offer praise, patience, and regular opportunities to explore books that interest them.