A FREE workshop is being offered to parents and caregivers who have concerns about their child’s spelling, reading or writing.
Andrea O’Hagan – learning coach, experienced primary teacher and tertiary teaching fellow – will present the session on Saturday at Te Koputu, Whakatane’s library and exhibition centre, from 10.30am for an hour.
The interactive workshop will also look at why some children can read well but struggle with spelling, what goes on in the brain of a visual thinker and why some bright, creative children are able to problem solve, yet not spell well.
Mrs O’Hagan said literacy skills were necessary for a large portion of the learning children did in schools, because they were reading and writing in most subject areas.
“If a child is struggling to spell, read or write, their school day becomes much more of a challenge.
“If they are struggling when they begin intermediate or secondary school, they can feel less able than their peers. When children begin to tell themselves “I am dumb, this is too hard” their learning and behaviour can deteriorate.”
She said parents could use simple strategies to make learning easier for their children.
To register interest in the free workshop contact the library staff on 07 3060509, or email library@whakatane.govt.nz.