Plant the Seed, Grow a Reader: Avoid "Holding Back" Later.
by Nile Stanley, Ph.D. Sweet April showers As the end of the school year approaches, some parents are confronted with making the decision whether to promote or retain a child. Being far behind academically and having reading problems are the most frequent reasons for retention. Does holding a child back help? Recent research findings are mixed. Some studies show that at the end of the repeated grade, retained students score somewhat lower on achievement tests than similar children who were promoted to the next grade. On the other hand, blanket social promotion policies have frequently produced illiterate high school graduates. It is clear, though, that retention alone does not increase achievement. Remediation in basic skills is needed, not just another year repeating lessons in the same grade with possibly the same teacher. The alternative of moving the child to the next grade can be considered if special services and extra learning time can be provided. Parents can provide ways to help the child who progress slowly:
You Can Plant Seeds of Greatness and Grow a Reader! If you just, try, try, and try again! See this month's associated Reading Calendar (pdf)
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