Why Regulation Before Reading is the Key to Lifelong Learning

As parents and educators, we all want children to thrive in their reading journey. But what if the key to unlocking their potential lies not just in practising letters and sounds, but in something much deeper—regulation?

Research shows that a child's ability to regulate their body and emotions plays a crucial role in how they engage with learning, especially when it comes to reading. Before a child can focus on letters and stories, they need to be able to sit or lay and focus, feel connected with their mind and body, have an understanding of the space around them and the space between letters on the page, and also be physically ready to move their eyes and head smoothly to read.

Here's why regulation before reading is so important and how our resources can support your child's journey.

Understanding the Connection Between Regulation and Reading

When we talk about regulation, we're referring to a child's ability to manage their energy and arousal level, stay calm and connected, and keep their body in a state where they can focus and learn new information. This is crucial for reading because:

• Calm Minds Are Ready Minds: If a child is feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or overly excited, it can be incredibly difficult for them to focus on the words in front of them. Regulation helps them reach a state of calm where they can concentrate and absorb information.
• Physical Readiness Affects Learning: Reading isn't just a mental activity; it's also a physical one. Children need to be able to sit still, follow a line of text, and control their eye movements. These skills are rooted in physical development, which is why building coordination and body awareness is so important before diving into reading tasks.
• Emotional Safety Encourages Exploration: When children feel emotionally safe and regulated, they're more likely to take risks and try new things—like sounding out a tricky word or engaging with a new activity. This emotional safety comes from having tools and strategies to manage their feelings and frustration when learning something different and challenging.

Our Regulation to Reading Resources

At Play Move Improve, we believe in the power of integrating regulation strategies into the reading journey. That's why we've developed a range of resources to support you and your child:

1. Free "Regulation to Reading" Handout
   • Download our free handout to get started on your regulation journey.
   • Learn practical tips and understand the crucial link between regulation and reading success.
   • Access it here
2. Regulation to Reading Starter Pack - $39
   • Take the next step with our comprehensive Starter Pack.
   • Includes over 100 printable sensori-motor activities.
   • Covers foundation pre-reading skills and activities for children confused with b, d, p, and q letters.
   • Perfect for those who want to dive deeper but aren't ready for the full course.
   • Get started here: [Link to Starter Pack]
3. "Reading with Confidence" 6-Module Course - $129
   • Our flagship course for those serious about supporting their child's reading journey.
   • Six in-depth modules covering all aspects of regulation and reading.
   • Live weekly sessions starting Monday, 2nd September (all sessions recorded for flexibility).
   • Includes the complimentary Sensori-Motor Reading Program.
   • Access to our supportive online community.
   • Enrol now: [Link to Full Course]

Studies have shown that children who struggle with self-regulation are more likely to experience difficulties with reading. Our resources are designed to address this crucial link, giving children the foundation they need to succeed not just in reading, but in all areas of learning.

By focusing on regulation, we're not just teaching kids to read; we're helping them build the foundation for all future learning. Our approach integrates the latest research with practical, easy-to-implement strategies that make reading a joyful and confident experience for every child.

Ready to Support Your Child's Reading Journey?

1. Start with our free "Regulation to Reading" handout.
2. Explore our Starter Pack for a deeper dive into sensori-motor activities.
3. Join our comprehensive "Reading with Confidence" course for the full experience.

Let's work together to make reading a joyful and confident experience for your child. Choose the resource that best fits your needs and take the first step towards reading success today!