Kingscourt Reading is a highly successful programme which has been written by a team of internationally renowned experts specifically to teach pupils to read. Kingscourt Reading is used in over 10,000 schools throughout the UK and has been carefully levelled to the latest Book Band scheme by the Institute of Education, so that you can be sure you are using one of the most thoroughly tried and tested, as well as widely respected, resources available.

During their lessons the children will read a wide variety of books, including ones that tell stories and give information as well as plays and poems. The books do not all look the same because teachers know that pupils need access to a wide variety of author and illustrator styles. You will see books that are funny and sad, books which are from all over the world and illustrations showing a diverse range of characters.

We are sure you want to support your child’s learning and when the books are sent home for you to read with your child there are many ways you can help. Reading needs to be fun so find a few minutes and enjoy the chance to spend this time supporting your child.

When they first start to read you will be the one doing most of the reading - and that is absolutely fine. We learn by example so if children see adults reading they will want to read as well. With books sent home from school try to talk with your child about the title of the book, the cover and the contents page if the book has one. Then on each page talk about the pictures and ask ‘what do you see?’ and then before you turn the page ask ‘what might happen on the next page?’ When you have finished talk about the book and tell each other the story again without reading it so you are remembering what you read.

As your child’s confidence and skills grow you can also ask at the start ‘what do you think this book is going to be about?’ Once you have finished reading together ask a question about what you have read.

You will reach a point where your child can read the book to you and if there are words they cannot read ask what the word starts with, and/or read a bit further and see if that helps make clear what the difficult word is. You can start the sentence again as sometimes a second try is enough and if they work it out give a lot of praise - if not tell them the answer and move on. Ask which character they liked most and why, what information did they find and maybe how the author could have changed the end.

With Kingscourt Reading your child will make progress and at the same time enjoy learning to read and we hope you enjoy helping them.

If you have any questions, you can e-mail: ukschools@mcgraw-hill.com or telephone 01628 502 730.