Kids are labeled as ‘’ignorant” and they lose their confidence when they get ‘’b’’ and ‘’d’’ sounds incorrect, yet the confusion is more common than you may think.
Firstly they look and sound similar, especially to a young reader who is still developing their recognition skills. The only difference is in the orientation of the line attached to the circle
Young children are still developing their language and literacy skills, including learning letter-sound matching. Confusion between similar sounds is a natural part of this learning process.
HOW TO HELP A CHILD OVERCOME THE ”B” AND ”D” CONFUSION
To help children overcome this confusion, it’s important to provide lots of opportunities to practice these sounds, using multisensory approaches .
b. Clap to count the number of total words in the sentence. Then clap/click fingers to identify the words beginning with the same sound example ‘’b’’ Repeat the sentences more than once.
b. Take 5 minutes each day and give them a mirror- When you say ‘b’ your mouth is in a line , let them watch you and practice it in front of the mirror. This re-enforces the sound and the shape.
b. Use your finger to write words with ‘’b’’ and ‘’d’’ in them on your child’s back and ask them to guess the word. Most kids love the interaction with the parent and great way to spend some quality time.
b. Create a bracelet and have a “b’’ hand to emphasize the letter. https://www.readingrockets.org/
b. Additionally, reinforcing the visual differences between the letters “b” and “d” can be helpful.
If you’re short on time but still want to engage with your child in meaningful ways, there are several alternatives to reading that can promote learning, bonding, and language development.
1. Think beyond books
Read comic books, ask your child to read a recipe or help write a shopping list. It helps your child see that reading is part of everyday life.
2. Storytelling: Instead of reading from a book, create stories on the spot. Encourage your child to use their imagination and contribute to the story. This can be a fun and interactive way to engage with your child and spark creativity.
3. Lean on Family and Friend
Encourage other family members to participate in reading or storytelling sessions with your child. This not only shares the responsibility but also creates valuable bonding experiences. Get grandpa and Granma to come over one evening a week and read to the kids while you cook supper. If they are far away, do it via googlemeet or zoom. Just make sure your child has a copy of the book.
4. Picture Walks: Take a “picture walk” through a book by flipping through the pages and discussing the pictures together. You can ask your child questions about what they see, what they think might happen next, or what they notice about the illustrations.
5. Use Audio books or record yourself
Use this as an alternative to traditional reading. Some libraries have audiobooks , or get an online version of the book along with the hard copy of the book. Start up the audiobook, and your child can listen while you get other things done.
If you have a smartphone or computer handy, you can even record yourself reading your child’s favorite book. To make the recording more fun, talk about the pictures and tell your child when it’s time to turn the page.
While it’s essential to limit screen time, certain apps and websites can supplement traditional reading experiences. Check out the Public Library Libby App https://www.overdrive.com/apps/libby
6. Use Community Resources:
Take advantage of storytime sessions at local libraries, community centers, or bookstores. These events provide opportunities for your child to engage with books and stories in a social setting.
7. Create a Reading Routine
Establish a consistent reading routine, even if it’s only for a few minutes each day. Set aside specific times, such as before bedtime or during breakfast, to share stories or engage in literacy activities together.
8. Make the most of in-between moments: Consider the time spent in waiting rooms or waiting to pick up one child while having others with you. (Or waiting while the taxi fills up)
Make carrying a small book or two a habit. Take them out when you have a spare moment and read with your child, or have them read to you. If you don’t have a book, read posters or tell stories to each other.
While snuggling up with a book is wonderful, it’s not always feasible. If finding time to read to your child stresses you out, try these ideas. Reading together doesn’t have to be stressful; it can be a way to bond and have fun. By exploring different approaches, you might inspire your child to find other creative ways to enjoy reading. Remember, the goal is to foster a love of reading and language development in your child, regardless of the method you choose. Be creative and flexible in finding ways to incorporate literacy into your daily routine, even when time is limited
Reading is the primary medium for accessing vast amounts of information. While AI can assist in organizing and presenting information, the ability to read allows individuals to critically evaluate and interpret the content. Reading provides access to a wide range of sources, including books, and documents, enabling individuals to deepen their knowledge and make informed decisions.
2. Digital Literacy
AI technologies and AI are all around us, especially on the internet (and are becoming increasingly pervasive in our daily lives.) To navigate this digital landscape effectively, you need to be digitally literate. If you can read, you can understand what you see on websites, social media, and search engines. which includes the ability to read and understand digital content. By developing reading skills, individuals can comprehend and evaluate the information presented through AI-powered platforms. It helps you know what’s real and what’s not, such as search engines, social media, and news aggregators.
3. Critical Thinking
In the age of AI, where algorithms assists in personalizing content, it is essential to approach information with a critical mindset Reading enabling individuals to analyze, question, and interpret information. AI can show you things it thinks you’ll like, but reading lets you question and decide for yourself. It’s important to be careful and think for yourself.
4. Language Comprehension and Expression
Reading enhances language skills, including vocabulary and grammar. Proficient reading abilities are foundational for effective communication, both written and oral. While AI can generate text, it is essential for humans to understand and express ideas fluently and coherently, as well as adapt their language to different contexts. Reading broadens vocabulary, enhances language comprehension, and improves writing skills
6. Creativity and Imagination
Reading stimulates creativity and imagination, fostering the development of unique perspectives and ideas. While AI can generate creative content, it often relies on pre-existing data and patterns, but reading helps you come up with your own ideas. Reading fosters originality, empathy, and the ability to think outside the box. These qualities are invaluable in fields that require innovation, such as art, literature, science, and entrepreneurship.
7. Empowerment and Personal Growth
Reading promotes personal growth by expanding knowledge, broadening perspectives, and facilitating personal reflection. It empowers individuals to explore different cultures, historical periods, and intellectual ideas. Reading also enhances empathy by enabling readers to understand different viewpoints and experiences. It’s important for getting along with others and understanding the world.
In conclusion
While AI can add to various aspects of information processing and content generation, the ability to read remains vital. Reading equips individuals with critical thinking skills, language proficiency, creativity, and personal growth, allowing them to navigate the world of AI effectively, make informed decisions, and contribute meaningfully to society. So, even if reading is difficult, remember that it’s still really important. It helps you learn, understand, think, communicate, be creative, and grow as a person.
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Tips
Build your child’s spoken word and vocabulary skills by having regular robust discussions around the dinner table, about a variety of topics, as recommended by LB Literacy.
When reading with your child, ask them questions focusing on the 5 W’s (who, what, where, when and why) to focus your child and to check their understanding.
Help your child to find answers to these literal questions by looking for clues in the pictures and the words of the text.
Ask questions that require your child to link what happened in one part of the story with an outcome in another part of the story (exploring cause and effect).
Pause reading midway through a story and ask your child to predict what they think will happen next. Encourage them to base their answer on what has already happened and what they know about the characters in the story.
Encourage your child to make inferences based on what they already know.
When reading with your child introduce the before, during and after approach recommended by Reading Rockets.
To explore the possibility of Reading Therapy with Cheryl Cupido in Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth (Walmer Heights /Lorraine/ Sunridge), contact her for a free consultation to discuss how she can assist you.