If a school or classroom is transitioning to new reading practices aligned to the Science of Reading, offering a literacy event to explain the changes, the rationale, and how instruction may look different is a win-win for the teacher and families. For example, the terms phonological and phonemic awareness, phonics, and 'simple view of reading' will most likely be used in a classroom that applies the principles of the Science of Reading.
Rather than send home an article that explains each one, invite the parents to an interactive presentation to introduce them to the terminology and provide examples. Use resources, such as Reading Rockets, to show short video clips or model reading practices that parents can emulate at home.2 Combining knowledge, resources and modeling will build parents' confidence to contribute to their child's reading experience at home.
A final suggestion for welcoming families into the literacy practices of the classroom is offering ongoing communication about the reading practices a student experience during the school day. Social media, classroom websites, emails or newsletters give families a consistent window into their child's learning experience. Designate a section within your communication tools for information about the Science of Reading, and consistently use this space to share literacy terminology, instructional practices, classroom application, and tips for supporting a student at home.
Although establishing a positive and productive relationship with families takes time and effort, applying these recommendations at the start of the school year will pay significant dividends as the year progresses. When parents are informed and empowered about the academic activities of their child's classroom, they will feel like a welcomed team member (teacher, family, student) and become strong advocates for their child's academic success.
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Retrieved from:
1 District Leadership Forum, How Our Brains Learn to Read in August 2022.
2 WETA, Reading Rockets in August 2022.