The Doman Method is an educational program developed by Glenn Doman, an American physical therapist, who believed that children have a natural ability to learn and that parents can play a crucial role in developing their child’s potential. The Doman Method is designed to help parents teach their children various skills, including reading, math, and music, from a very early age.
“We have found over and over again that a child at home with mother can learn as much in an hour as the average child learns in a day at school; as much in a day as the average child learns in a week at school.”
― Glenn Doman
How To Teach Your Baby To Read
To teach a baby to read using the Doman Method, the following steps can be followed:
- Start early: The Method recommends starting the reading program when the child is still a newborn, around three months old.
- Use flashcards: The method involves using flashcards with large, bold words on them. Show the flashcards to the baby for a few seconds each day.
- Make it fun: Make the learning process fun and enjoyable for the baby. Use a cheerful tone of voice, and show excitement when presenting the flashcards.
- Repetition is key: Repetition is essential to the Method. Repeat each word on the flashcard several times per day, every day.
- Use a variety of words: Use a variety of words and concepts to keep the baby interested and engaged.
- Gradually increase the complexity: As the baby becomes more proficient in reading, gradually increase the complexity of the words on the flashcards.
The following video is a small lecture with some examples of how to teach your baby to read:
How does the Doman Method help children with Down Syndrome?
The Doman Method includes a range of activities and techniques that are designed to stimulate a child’s senses and promote learning. These may include sensory stimulation, physical exercises, language and communication training, and cognitive games and puzzles. The program also emphasizes the importance of parental involvement and support, with parents playing an active role in their child’s development and participating in the daily activities and exercises prescribed by the program.
While there is limited scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of the Doman Method for children with Down Syndrome, some parents and professionals have reported success in using the program to support their child’s development. The program may help children with Down Syndrome improve their motor skills, language abilities, and cognitive functioning, and may also help to improve their overall quality of life. However, it is important to approach any therapeutic program with caution and to consult with qualified professionals before implementing the program.
It’s important to note that the effectiveness of the Doman Method for teaching babies to read is still a subject of debate among educators and experts. Some studies have shown positive results, while others have not. It’s up to parents to decide if they want to try the Doman Method or not, and to do their research before embarking on this educational program.