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The Most Powerful Reading Strategy? Empathy.
When a child says, “I hate reading,”
Our first instinct is often to fix it.
To correct. To push. To say, “You just need to try harder.”

But the real beginning—the moment everything can start to shift—is much quieter.

It starts with:
💛 “I get it. Reading can be hard.”
💛 “It didn’t feel easy for me either.”
💛 “You’re not alone in this.”

Because behind the resistance is often shame.
Frustration. Fear of failure.
A feeling of being behind—especially when everyone else seems to be speeding ahead.

I’ve seen this with my own son.
And I’ve seen it with so many students whose entire body language changed the moment they felt seen instead of scrutinized.

Empathy doesn’t solve decoding.
It doesn’t replace instruction.
But it creates a foundation where growth can happen.

It says, “You’re more important than the data.”
“I believe in you, even when it’s hard.”
“We’ll figure this out—together.”

If you’re feeling stuck, try leading with compassion.
Instead of the question, “Why won’t you just read?”
Try, “What about reading feels hard today?”

You might be surprised what opens up when pressure leaves the room.

And if your child is struggling, remember:
Progress begins with presence.
And the best strategy isn’t a program or a timer—it’s you.

Have you found a moment when empathy changed everything? I’d love to hear your story in the comments.

Want to see the full video? Check it out here.
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