As a pre-school home tutor, I would normally avoid teaching a child to read, so as they would progress at school and not get 'bored' if they were too far ahead.
However, one child who I have been working with since the age of two, is now 5. We discussed the idea of maybe introducing some basic words prior to school.
That was four weeks ago.
What happened? He could instantly read and remember over 50 words and is now on his third junior reader.
Better than that, we are using this skill to help his speech. He is using a word chart with no pictures to verbally request. For example: 'Can I have', followed by his choice of breakfast, lunch or dinner etc. He is literally 'eating words'.
Written words have opened a new door for this child, his desire to read and make sentences is rapidly improving his speech and general communication. It seems to be exremly grounding, and is helping him make sense of language.
Hyperlexia is the term for this trait, please feel free to share any insights, teaching ideas or experiences you have on this, I would be very interesed.
Claire x
