Teaching reading is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor

As a certified, licensed, and vetted science of reading tutor, I have firsthand accounts of teaching reading and the profound impact of an authentic, caring, teacher-student relationship on student reading growth.

1. Increased Engagement: When my students feel that I genuinely care about their progress, understand their needs, and connect relevancy to their learning, they are more engaged with the reading materials. This increased engagement increases motivation to read and participate actively in our tutoring sessions.

   
   

2. Boosted Confidence: A nurturing relationship fosters confidence in my students' reading abilities. By providing positive reinforcement and encouragement, I help them feel secure in taking risks, whether tackling a challenging passage or expressing their thoughts about a text.

   
   

3. Better Communication: A strong rapport allows for open communication. My students know they can come to me with questions or concerns, whether they’re struggling with a specific reading skill or need clarification about a passage. This communication is crucial for their development.

   
   

4. Tailored Instruction: Understanding my students’ interests and reading levels allows me to customize my instructional approach effectively. This personalized tutoring significantly enhances their reading skills and makes learning more enjoyable.

   
   

5. Emotional Support: A supportive relationship provides emotional reassurance. My students often feel less anxious about reading challenges when they know that I’m there to support them. This comfort encourages them to participate more fully in our sessions.

   
   

6. Development of a Growth Mindset: I strive to model a growth mindset, emphasizing that improvement comes from effort and practice. Encouraging my students to embrace challenges helps them cultivate resilience and commit to enhancing their reading skills.

   
   

7. Social and Collaborative Learning: Our tutoring sessions promote community and collaborative activities, encouraging communication and social interaction. When students work with their siblings, parents, and grandparents, they exchange ideas and learn from one another, which enriches their comprehension and enjoyment of reading.

   
   

8. Long-term Academic Success: I've seen that when my students develop a love for reading through our positive interactions, contributing to their long-term academic success. Building this foundation enhances their literacy skills and fosters a desire for lifelong learning.

   
   

As a reading tutor, I recognize that a robust teacher-student relationship is essential for creating a supportive learning environment. This relationship encourages students to engage meaningfully with reading materials and fosters their development as confident, capable readers.