Parent Toolkit
10 signs Your Child May Be Struggling With Reading
What Every Parent Should Know
Many children who struggle with reading are bright, creative, and capable learners. Reading difficulties are often mistaken for a lack of effort or motivation when the real issue is that a child may need more support with foundational reading skills. As parents, we often notice something isn't quite right long before we have the words to explain it — a feeling that something is harder for our child than it should be, even when they're clearly trying.
The earlier reading difficulties are identified, the easier they are often to address. That doesn't mean every sign points to a serious problem — but when several signs show up together, it's usually worth taking a closer look. This guide walks through ten of the most common signs we see, along with what they might mean and what you can do next.
Guessing Instead of Reading
Your Child may be guessing words based on the first letter, picture clues,
or context rather than reading the words accurately.
Avoids Reading
They may complain about reading, and try to get out of it, or choose other activities instead of reading.
Reading Slowly and Laboriously
Their reading may sound choppy or monotone, showing that decoding is taking all their effort.
Reading Without Expression
Their reading may sound choppy or monotone, showing that decoding is taking all their effort.
Weak Reading Comprehension
They may struggle to answer questions about what they just read. They may have even sounded great reading.
Difficulty Following Directions
Challenges in reading often show up in following instructions, or processing multiple steps.
Difficulty Remembering Words
Words that they read yesterday are often forgotten or read incorrectly.
Difficulty Retelling Stories
They may have difficulty recalling key details, or putting events in order.
Frustration, or Loss of Confidence
You may notice tears, anger, anxiety, or a child who says, "I'm just bad at reading.
Progress Has Stalled Despite Effort
When your child is consistently working hard, and still not improving.
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