Curious if reading difficulties could be linked to a learning difference like Dyslexia? This resource, by Cathy Bozelli, is a great place to learn more: evergreenliteracyresources.com

How to Support Your Struggling Reader at Home
Some children have a harder time learning to read, spell, or write, even though they are bright, creative, and capable. These challenges are often connected to how their brains process language—not a reflection of effort or intelligence. With early support and the right strategies, struggling readers can build confidence and make meaningful progress. Families play a powerful role in this journey. Here are simple, effective ways to support reading at home:

  • Read aloud with your child every day, even if they’re older—this builds vocabulary, listening skills, and confidence.
  • Encourage audiobooks so your child can enjoy age-appropriate stories without the stress of decoding.
  • Play word games like rhyming, syllable clapping, or “I Spy” with beginning sounds to strengthen early reading skills.
  • Use magnetic letters, letter tiles, or sidewalk chalk to build and play with words in a hands-on way.
  • Create structured reading routines to provide consistency and reduce frustration.
  • Celebrate effort and progress, not just accuracy—this helps build a positive mindset around reading.
  • Label everyday objects around your home to help connect spoken words to written ones.
  • Choose books and content based on your child’s interests to help keep them engaged and motivated.
  • Break reading or writing tasks into smaller steps, and offer breaks when needed.
  • Stay connected with your child’s teacher or reading specialist to align strategies and get additional support.

Every child learns at their own pace. With encouragement, patience, and the right tools, families can make a lasting impact on their child’s reading journey.

Free & Affordable Audiobook Resources

  • Epic!
    A digital library for kids 12 and under, with thousands of high-interest books, audiobooks, and read-to-me titles. Free for educators and low-cost for families.
  • Libby / OverDrive
    Borrow eBooks and audiobooks for free with a local library card. Great for families who want quality children’s and young adult books.
  • Audible Stories for Kids
    Offers a rotating selection of free audiobooks for children of all ages—no subscription required.

Interactive Literacy Tools & Read-Along Resources

  • PBS Kids Read-Alongs
    Features well-known children’s book authors reading aloud with text on screen. Great for younger readers.
  • Unite for Literacy
    Offers free picture books with audio narration in multiple languages. Ideal for early readers and bilingual families.
  • Bookshare
    An accessible online library for people with reading barriers. Free for U.S. students with qualifying disabilities.
  • Vooks
    Animated storybooks with read-along narration—engaging and visually rich. Subscription-based, but offers a free trial.