What Adults Should Know

Many adults assume that somehow children will automatically learn to read by the time they’re in the third grade or even earlier. Not so. According to national reading statistics, four in ten children have difficulty learning to read and some are at risk of never learning at all. According to data collected through the National Assessment of Adult Literacy, conducted by the U.S. Department of Education, one in seven people in the United States is functionally illiterate meaning that he or she can barely read a help wanted ad or write a letter.

Reading Guide Preview
Quick Tips for Reading Volunteers

• Ask the teacher or school librarian to suggest age appropriate reading materials.
• Know your student and select content that connects to his or her interests and experiences.
• Preview the reading material and anticipate open-ended questions you can ask to spark discussion.
• Depending on the age of the student, alternate reading the story aloud to each other.
• When it’s your turn, read with expression and don’t rush. Pause for expression and allow time for questions.
• If a section seems hard for a student, help them with difficult words and give them positive feedback.
• Encourage your student. Praise success!

Funding for this project has been generously provided by the Junior League of Kansas City, Missouri and the Kansas Health Foundation.