How Does Your Child’s Literacy Compare With Others?

Like you, most parents wonder how their child’s reading compares to others. It’s normal to be curious. 

Social media isn't helping. 

Luckily, it’s easy to find out how your child measures up. There are lots of tests they can do online. But the best way to find out how your child is doing… is just by asking their teacher. 

Teachers spend six hours a day with your child. They know better than anyone how your child is reading. And they can give you customized ideas to help your child learn.

Photo credit: Nujalee

Experts recommend having regular talks with the teacher. Child development is so dynamic! A quick, weekly email can really help assess where your child is at so you can make a difference—even at home. 

And, just as important, it gets teachers to pay more attention to your child. Research proves it! If they know you will be checking in regularly, teachers will make sure they have something to say. They will talk to your child more and provide thoughtful feedback on their schoolwork.

Other Assessments

You can also assess your child’s literacy on a larger scale. Start with the Checkpoints for Progress In Reading and Writing. This site was created by the US Department of Education.  Just click your child’s age to see what skills they should have.

Or try these free tests your child can take at home: 

MindPlay Reading Aptitude Assessment Test

This test is divided into two parts: phonics and comprehension. Your child can take the test online in 15-40 minutes. MindPlay then emails you a score with specific feedback.

Schonell Reading Test

This measures a child’s reading age. Ask the child to read the words aloud from left to right. 

Download the Schonell Reading Test and full instructions here.

San Diego Quick Assessment

This is a fast, accurate way to find a child’s word recognition skills. The SDQA does not measure comprehension.

Download the San Diego Quick Assessment and full instructions here.

These tests are not meant to diagnose reading problems. They simply give you an idea of how your child is reading. If you have any concerns about their reading, speak with their teacher right away.

It is also worth noting that test scores mean less for younger children. If they lack a skill at age 3-5, it is probably because they haven’t learned it yet. When they are older, it is more likely that they don’t get it. 

Now you know some easy ways to figure out how your child’s reading compares to others. Try them out! Whatever happens, remember that learning to read is a journey. It isn’t about where they are now. It’s about all the places you can help them go.

StudyDog Parents: Have you ever had questions about your child’s literacy? What did you do about it?