How to Choose the “Just Right” Book for Your Child to Read

Make sure you have a “Just Right” book before your child starts to read. A book that is “Just Right” is not too hard, but not too easy! By doing so, this will alleviate any frustration your child may experience when trying to read a book that’s too high for their current reading level.

Try the 5-Finger test when choosing your “Just Right” book:

Open the book to the middle. Choose a full page of words. Have your child read the full page out loud. Watch as your child reads and hold up one finger for every error that you catch.

One finger (thumb):
Thumbs up! Great book choice, this will be an easy, frustration free read.
Two fingers (thumb and index finger):
Makes an L, still Looking good! Enjoy!
Three fingers (makes a W):
Warning! This book may be best when read with someone.
Four or more fingers (whole hand):
STOP! This book may be too tough to enjoy alone. Ask an adult or older sibling to read this book to you.

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