Reading is one of the fundamental building blocks of education and life. But for many children, reading can be a difficult and trying experience. Struggling readers may find it hard to keep up in school, making them feel disheartened and, in more extreme cases, even leading to an aversion towards reading.
If a child has difficulty with reading, one option to consider is the Kumon Method. This article will discuss the key aspects of the Kumon Method and whether or not it is ideal for struggling readers.
What Is The Kumon Method?
The Kumon Method is an educational program developed by Toru Kumon, a Japanese math teacher. This method is designed to help children become proactive in their own learning, giving them the skills necessary to read with comprehension. It is a self-paced system that encourages students to work on their own and emphasizes the importance of mastering the fundamentals of math and reading.
The aim of the program is to help children become independent and confident readers at their own pace. The Kumon Method is based on two main philosophies: “mastery learning” and “right-brained education”.
Mastery learning is the idea that children should be able to fully comprehend a subject before moving on to another. This allows children to gain a better understanding of the material and become more confident in their reading ability. Right-brained education encourages students to take a creative approach to problem solving, using methods such as visualising and pattern recognition.
What Is Included In The Program?
The Kumon Method is usually broken down into two main parts: Math and Reading. The Math program covers the fundamentals of arithmetic, geometry, algebra, and beyond. The Reading program covers topics such as phonics, sentence structure, comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary.
However, the focus of both programs is to help children understand each topic in-depth and become comfortable reading increasingly more complex material. The program is also tailored to each child’s individual needs.
Students take assessments to determine theirreading and math level. A Kumon Instructor then creates a personalized curriculum that is suited to the child’s ability and learning style. This allows the child to make steady progress at their own pace and have a sense of accomplishment once they master a skill.
How Can The Kumon Method Help Struggling Readers?
The Kumon Method emphasizes the importance of a strong foundation in the fundamentals of math and reading. This can help struggling readers brush up on the basics, giving them the skills necessary to understand more complex material. By tackling specific topics in-depth, students can solidify their understanding and build confidence.
This allows them to feel comfortable when tackling new or unfamiliar material. The program also encourages students to become independent and proactive learners.
This is especially beneficial for students who are struggling with reading. By taking control of their own learning, they can slowly build their confidence and become more engaged in their academic pursuits.
Additionally, the feedback and guidance of a Kumon Instructor can be invaluable for a struggling reader. Having someone who understands their unique needs and can offer comfort and support can make a huge difference during this challenging period.
What Are The Potential Drawbacks Of The Kumon Method?
The main drawback of the Kumon Method is the cost. It is a considerable investment and may not be accessible to all families.
Additionally, the program requires dedication and commitment to get the most out of it. The process of working through the readings and exercises can seem daunting, and children may need encouragement and support to keep going. The Kumon Method also emphasizes mastering the fundamentals of math and reading.
While this is beneficial for most students, it may be restrictive for advanced learners. Students who are already literate and have a deep understanding of math may become frustrated with the slow progress and become disengaged. Finally, the process of mastering the material can be slow and steady, which may not be suitable for all students.
Depending on the situation and the needs of the student, other approaches such as private tutoring may be more suitable.
What Are The Alternatives To The Kumon Method?
If the cost of the Kumon Method is prohibitive or the curriculum is too restrictive, there are other options to consider. One option is to enroll in a literacy program.
This could be done through a school, library, or community organization. These programs provide guidance and support and may be less expensive than the Kumon Method. It is also possible to hire a private tutor, who can tailor their approach to the needs of the student.
This could be done on a one-to-one basis in the student’s home or at a tutoring center. Private tutors can also provide additional support if the student is falling behind in other subjects.
Finally, the child may benefit from technology-based reading interventions such as apps, software, and eBooks. This technology can make the process of learning to read more engaging and allow for a tailored approach to the student’s needs.
Conclusion
The Kumon Method is a structured approach to learning reading and math that emphasizes mastering the fundamentals at one’s own pace. For struggling readers, this user-friendly system may provide the guidance and support needed to master reading comprehension.
However, there are potential drawbacks to the Kumon Method, such as the cost and the suitability for advanced learners. Alternatives such as literacy programs, private tutors, and technology-based reading interventions can provide similar benefits at a lower cost. Ultimately, it is best to weigh the pros and cons and decide which option is best suited to the needs of the child.