At newly 6-years-old Nora is an emergent reader. Basically, this means she can read simple words with some effort but not with much fluency yet. She has been at this place for awhile (booo Covid) because school has been so inconsistent. But, I know she will get more confidence in reading on her own timeline. My job is to support her joyful learning and protect her love of learning. This sometimes calls for some fun and sneaky reading practice.
One way we are doing this is with a love jar. The idea came from her guide (teacher) last spring and we've been using it at home ever since. The concept is really simple. It's basically passing love notes to one another.
It's just a little jar that I've tied a ribbon around to make it pretty and attractive. The same thing could be done with a little box or any special, beautiful container. I placed the jar in a special spot in her room and told her to check it frequently.
Then, on tiny strips of paper, I write love notes to place in the jar. These notes are simple so that she can read them independently. I may ask a question opening up a conversation with her. She can also write me back on the notes.
It's really been a great way to fuel connection, and practice some reading and writing skills. So, if you're looking for another way to support your emergent reader at home, give this simple idea a try! If you have an older child who is a stronger reader, maybe try a back and forth journal where you can leave longer messages for one another.
Do you have any fun ideas for connecting with your emergent reader?
