>I agree wholeheartedly that the "individual involvement" with kids as they learn to read, with the encouragement of their tiny little accomplishments, goes a *long* way to building their confidence and self-esteem. That's why involvement of parents in teaching their kids to read is so important, and also taking time throughout their school years to read to them and listen to them read.

>My two children still at home (ages 9 & 17) both enjoyed tremendously a book that we read together about the life of Dr. George Washington Carver of Tuskegee, Alabama, who my father knew personally. We took turns reading a portion of a chapter each evening for several weeks -- and they still talk about that experience. (And I've just reminded myself that it's time to do that again) :-)

>Dale, as you work with kids who are learning to read, I'm sure you have found yourself giving little encouragements to them. The long-term effects of those seemingly insignificant comments won't be fully seen for years, but they are there in those kids' foundations.


I don't do much reading to my 5 yr old my wife the "big time" lawyer has that job. Me, with just a average brain, has to settle for feeding him and playing with him, oh yea, and paying the mortage. :)