Improvements in reading have been relatively flat since the early 1970s. International assessments provide more positive results. American children and youth were found to be better readers than students in many other industrial nations. Proficient readers remain a minority.
Problems are particularly severe for disadvantaged students.
Many low income and minority students lose some literacy and academic abilities during the summer months. Reading is the gateway to all other knowledge. It is essential that children find time to read aloud every day. Learning to read reflectively helps learning disabled to become better readers. When reading with children, pause for discussion about what has been read.