THE PARENT'S ENGLISH LAB

Practical reading, writing, and learning strategies for middle and high school students—and the parents who support them.

Why Letting Your Student Choose What to Read Can Build a Stronger Reader

Why Letting Your Student Choose What to Read Can Build a Stronger Readerby: Virginia TaylorPublished on: 20/07/2026

Helping your student become a stronger reader doesn't always start with harder books. Discover why letting kids choose what they read can build confidence, vocabulary, and a lifelong love of reading.

books for reluctant teen readersreluctant readersmiddle school readinghigh school readinghomeschool Englishshould kids choose their own booksfamily reading
Read more
Why Letting Your Student Choose What to Read Can Build a Stronger Reader

When Your Student Says, "I Don't Know What to Write"

When Your Student Says, "I Don't Know What to Write"by: Virginia TaylorPublished on: 13/07/2026

Discover how asking the right questions helps reluctant writers find their ideas, organize their thoughts, and gain confidence before they begin writing.

reluctant writerwriting help for teenshomeschool writingmiddle school writinghigh school writingwriting tutorliterary analysiswriting processhomeschool Englishonline English tutorADHD writing strategies
Read more
When Your Student Says, "I Don't Know What to Write"

Before You Tell Them to Turn Off the Game, Try This Instead | Helping Reluctant Writers

Before You Tell Them to Turn Off the Game, Try This Instead | Helping Reluctant Writersby: Virginia TaylorPublished on: 08/07/2026

Before you ask your student to turn off the game, try asking a few questions instead. You might discover they're already practicing many of the same thinking skills we teach in English class.

video games and writingreluctant writersliterary analysiscritical thinking for teenshomeschool Englishmiddle school writinghigh school writingwriting motivationADHD writing support
Read more
Before You Tell Them to Turn Off the Game, Try This Instead | Helping Reluctant Writers