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The Sweet Spot of Support

Anne Hauth • Sep 04, 2023

Reading Specialist and One Minute Reader founder Candyce Ihnot likes to tell the story of a little boy who went from struggling to fluent in her class. When Candyce asked the boy how he got to be such a good reader, he said with a smirk, "It was nothing you did.” Rather than be offended by his brutal honesty, Candyce was delighted. The boy was taking due credit for his own accomplishment. He had come to understand that he’d possessed the tools for success all along. Having found the confidence and fortitude to master a huge challenge, he could now draw on those qualities again in the future—without his teacher’s help.


Of course, the boy’s assessment that Candyce had done absolutely nothing to help him learn to read was not entirely accurate. Rather, Candyce had offered just the right amount of support while still allowing him to feel ownership of his own success. Parents should aim to strike this same balance. The sweet spot lies in middle ground between over-functioning for your children, hijacking their accomplishments, and leaving them hanging without enough support to thrive. So how do you find this sweet spot for reading development?


Although children are able to work independently in the One Minute Reader program, parent support in key areas is crucial to their success. Specifically, you must provide support:


  • To properly introduce your child to the program. Our Steps Summary document provides a useful breakdown of the steps for you to use with your child.
  • To set clear expectations from the beginning. How many stories should they aim to complete each week? Should they be tracking their progress? Recording difficult words? Check out these free resources for ideas.
  • To dedicate a reading space for them to focus and flourish.
  • To encourage them in their efforts and celebrate their success. Reviewing the fluency and comprehension graphs with your child allows you to provide feedback on their performance and recognize their growth.


The long-term goal is for your child to become a fluent, confident, and independent reader. Developing readers have no time to waste, and parent support is crucial in helping them reach this goal as efficiently as possible. 


At the same time, you must help your child understand that their success is the direct result of their own efforts, and that they possess the skills they need to become a good reader. To this end, take care to ensure they work independently on activities that allow for it, and celebrate their progress graphs as proof of success. If, in the end, you have a fluent reader who can take full credit for their accomplishments, you’ll know you struck the right balance.

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Reading is a fundamental skill that opens doors to endless possibilities for children. As parents, we constantly seek ways to nurture our children’s reading abilities, making the process both enjoyable and educational. The One Minute Reader program is a fantastic tool designed to foster independent reading skills in children. Here are some tips to help you introduce this program to your child seamlessly and effectively. Start with an Overview: Before diving into the program, take some time to watch the “How Does One Minute Reader Work” video together with your child. This video provides a comprehensive overview of the program and helps your child understand what to expect. Set Up a Reading Routine: Establishing a consistent reading schedule is often a game changer. Choose a specific time each day dedicated to using the One Minute Reader program. Whether it’s right after school or before bedtime, consistency helps in building a habit. Create a Comfortable Reading Space: Designate a cozy and quiet reading nook where your child can focus without distractions. A comfortable chair, good lighting, or maybe a white noise machine can make this space inviting. Work Through the First Story Together: Help your child get started by working through the first story together. This hands-on guidance will help them feel comfortable with the steps involved and build their confidence to continue on their own. Start with a Positive Attitude: Your enthusiasm for the program can be contagious. Present the One Minute Reader program as a fun and exciting activity rather than a chore. Celebrate this new journey with your child, emphasizing the enjoyment and adventure in reading. Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals for your child. Start with shorter reading sessions and gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable. Celebrate small milestones to keep them motivated. Track Progress Together: Use the program’s tracking features to monitor your child’s progress. Discuss the improvements you both notice, and set new challenges together. This shared involvement can boost your child’s confidence and motivation. Celebrate Achievements: Celebrate your child’s reading achievements, no matter how small. Whether it’s a special treat or a simple acknowledgment, recognizing their efforts reinforces positive behavior and encourages continued progress. Introducing your child to the One Minute Reader program can be a rewarding experience that sets the foundation for a lifelong love of reading. By creating a supportive and engaging environment, you can help your child develop essential reading skills while fostering their independence and confidence.
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