In recent years, there has been a significant shift in the field of education towards understanding the science of reading. Many teachers and school administrators have realized that their previous methods of teaching reading might not have been as effective as they thought.
This realization has led to important questions: Do schools and teachers truly know the best ways to teach reading?
How much do parents need to understand about reading education to ensure their children become proficient readers?
Parental Perspectives on Reading Education
A survey conducted by Public Opinion Strategies and Impact Research reveals interesting insights from parents of elementary school children. Most parents believe that their child’s school and teacher are doing well in teaching reading, despite broader concerns about education in the U.S.
Why Reading Is Key for Children’s Brain Growth
Interestingly, only a small percentage of parents see their child’s reading ability as below grade level, and they usually do not blame teachers or schools for this.
Parental Involvement in Children’s Reading
The survey also shows that many parents are actively involved in their children’s reading development, with a majority reading to their children several times a week.
This involvement is consistent across different demographics. However, confidence in their child’s reading ability may not always be grounded in reality, as shown when parents are confronted with the statistic that only 32% of American fourth graders are proficient in reading according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress.
The Challenge of Understanding Reading Science
The key issue is whether parents are sufficiently informed to advocate for effective reading instruction. Faith Borkowsky, a literacy expert, highlights the problem of parents receiving vague or unhelpful information from teachers.
She emphasizes the need for parents to understand specific details about their child’s reading challenges rather than just a general reading level.
Parental Awareness of Reading Instruction Methods
The survey indicates that while parents are familiar with basic reading tools like sight words and phonics, they are less aware of specific methods and terminologies like leveled readers or the science of reading itself.
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This lack of detailed knowledge could hinder their ability to support their child’s reading education effectively.
The Role of Teachers in Reading Education
Mark Seidenberg, in his book “Language at the Speed of Sight,” points out a common assumption among parents that teachers are well-trained in teaching reading, which is not always the case.
This misconception emphasizes the need for both parents and educators to have a deeper understanding of the science of reading.
