Children who are basic skills deficient often struggle with basic learning abilities like reading, writing, and basic arithmetic. These challenges can significantly impact their confidence, classroom participation, and long-term academic success. However, with the right strategies and tools, these learners can progress and regain their confidence.
In this blog, we’ll explore how to develop children’s basic skills in learning, identify common obstacles, and offer practical solutions by educational mentors.
What Are Basic Skills Deficient Learners?
Basic skills deficient learners refer to children who lack basic skills in learning or who struggle with essential academic skills, such as
Reading comprehension – understanding what they read
Basic arithmetic – solving simple math problems like addition or subtraction
Following multi-step instructions independently
These struggles can lead to frustration, low confidence, and sometimes behavioral challenges, but often, it’s not a lack of intelligence. It is a lack of the right support and practice.
Common Challenges Your Child
Might Be Facing
If your child is backward in studies or declining in grades, you might notice these signs:
Not understanding what they just read
Getting stuck on basic math problems
Avoiding homework or not being active during assignments
Confused by instructions
Constantly asking for help on simple tasks
These are not reflections of laziness or lack of effort; they are asking for help, and they can be improved.
Simple Strategies to Build Your Child’s Basic Skills
The strategies to build your child’s basic skills in learning are parent-friendly, low-pressure, and designed to work in everyday life.
1. Use Phonics-Based Reading Tools
Instead of guessing words, phonics helps kids understand them by the sounds each letter or letter group makes. Repetition and encouragement build confidence fast.
Practice with simple, decodable books
Use apps or flashcards that teach letter-sound relationships
Sound out words together, celebrating small wins
2. Make Math Hands-On and Visual
Kids often struggle with abstract numbers. Bring math to life with interactive tools and everyday examples.
Use Math-Manipulatives (Counting-Blocks, Beans, Coins)
Draw number lines to show addition or subtraction
Play “store” to teach counting, change, and value
3. Practice Guided Reading Together
Reading is not just about decoding; it is also about understanding. That’s where Guided Reading helps. When you read together, it naturally improves.
Read a short book or passage with your child.
Pause to ask simple questions: “Why did that happen?” or “What do you think comes next?”
Talk about the story, not just the words
4. Use Feedback-Focused Practice
If your child makes a mistake, that is a golden opportunity for growth, but not for punishment. Growth comes from understanding, not perfection.
Show them why the answer was wrong
Walk through step-by-step corrections
Use encouraging language like, “Let’s try it another way.”
5. Break Learning into Small, Daily Tasks
Instead of long homework battles, think small and consistent. Tiny, daily efforts lead to big progress over time.
Set aside 15 minutes a day for reading or math
Focus on just one skill at a time
Use simple worksheets or printable games
6. Add Visual Aids and Charts
Sometimes, all a child needs is a clear picture of what they’re learning. These supports help kids feel organized and in control.
Hang up a number chart or alphabet poster
Use color-coded flashcards
Create a checklist for multi-step instructions
But remember, progress looks different for every child. Some children catch on quickly; others need a little more time and support. What matters most is consistency and love.
If you feel stuck in helping your child, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher or a tutor. And if your child has deeper learning needs, a formal evaluation might be the right step to better support them.
You are Your Child’s First and
Best Teacher
Every little support you give is part of your child’s success story. You don’t need all the answers; just start small, stay patient, and celebrate the growth along the way.
The above strategies can help your child to develop their basic skills in learning. With the right tools and your support, your child can develop their basic skills in learning and be a better student.
