QUESTION: Why is it so hard for my child to decode multisyllabic words?
ANSWER:
The process of reading is quite intricate and involves the integration of several skills and various regions of the brain working together to make sense of written language.
These skills include:
The brain processes language in different ways. One way is to figure out the sounds in words. When your child has to say a word with more than one syllable (multisyllabic), their brain must work harder because it needs more pathways. This may be too difficult for your child.
This challenge can be compounded by other factors, like weak visual memory or difficulty recognizing common word patterns.
It is also important to remember that your child’s challenges with decoding multisyllabic words are not uncommon. Many students struggle with this skill. With perseverance and support, your child can overcome their difficulties and become a confident and successful reader.
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It’s amazing how much there is to talk about with this topic. So much to think about, and every time I read one I learn something new. Thanks for all you do!
This is a problem that never went away for me. Fortunately, I can compensate with visual memory. If I hear the word read to me enough, it will become part of my memory and I will recognize the word. I do recognize, however, that many kids and adults with learning differences cannot read in this way.