One thing that slows readers down is “vocalizing”—or saying every word to yourself. Some readers “subvocalize.” That is, they say the words way down in their throats.

This causes them to read only as fast as they can speak—which is much slower than the rate at which the eyes can move.

Your child can tell if he’s vocalizing by resting his hands gently on the side of his throat while he reads some easy materials. He will feel the vibrations.

If there are vibrations—the cure is simple. Have him try chewing gum as he reads. It’s impossible to talk and chew at the same time!

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