When KD and I went to the library the other day, we picked up several Step 1 reader books, featuring Thomas the Tank Engine and the Berenstein Bears. The first night, we both got a bit frustrated, so I told her not to worry and we'd try again tomorrow. We didn't get around to it again until bedtime the following night. I was expecting a bit of frustration like the night before, but being prepared for it made it easier. I had to give prompting a bit and explain some of the bigger words, but SHE READ THE BOOK TO ME!
I have to admit, I'm not the most consistent homeschooling mom. I spend too much time on the computer some days. I'm behind on lesson plans, laundry and dishes. I do, however, have a very easy going, determined little self-starter. She reminds me to take her vitamins, instead of the other way around. When she's bored, and none of her pretend friends want to play, she asks permission to get on the computer and play with her reading games. The games on www.Starfall.com have been among her favorites and have made greater strides in teaching her how to read than I have. I've read countless books to her and "caught" her reading a few times, but she and I have never just sat down and tried to work through a beginner's level book together. Usually, she picks out a book from the library based on the cover art; the words used in those books are usually over her head. After we've read the book a few times, she'll come to me and say she can read it, but she's usually just working from memory.
Needless to say, I'm a lot more motivated to work with her on her reading. I don't personally know any kindergarteners in public school, so I don't know they're average reading levels. I do know that in order to graduate kindergarten, a child has to be able to read at a basic level. If that were the only requirement, I think KD would be graduating in about 2 months or so. We'll see.
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