What is reading fluency?

Reading fluency is more than just reading quickly—it’s about reading both accurately and effortlessly. When a child is fluent, they not only pronounce words correctly but also read with natural phrasing and intonation, making the process feel smooth and automatic. Fluent readers can focus on understanding what they’re reading, instead of getting bogged down by individual words.

Teachers may tell you that your child is doing well if they can read grade-level books with a good level of accuracy. However, fluency goes beyond just accuracy. If a child is working too hard to decode words, it can impact their ability to fully comprehend the text. Fluency allows a child to read in a way that feels natural and automatic, which in turn helps them focus on meaning rather than effort. Reading aloud is one way to spot fluency, as it offers insights into a child's rhythm, expression, and overall comfort with the text.

Ultimately, reading fluency is key to comprehension. Whether a child is reading for information—like from a textbook or instruction manual—or for enjoyment—like a storybook or novel—fluency helps ensure they understand and engage with the material. Developing fluency not only boosts comprehension but also fosters a love for reading, making it a critical skill for lifelong learning.