I'm in the same boat with my two because they're both reading below-level stuff at the moment. LOL I also remember being the child in this scenario and having teachers try and encourage me to read harder books.

I've let it go, because...

1) no phase lasts forever
2) they're fostering a love of books
3) it's not just about reading level, but also about personal interest and connection to the content (this is directly from my experience)

and (drum roll)

4) they're still reinforcing spelling and some grammar skills, even if it's below level.

For instance, DD9 (math kid smile ) recently got 100% on a class spelling test, including challenge words that the teacher surprised them with.

So for now I'm letting them read what they want...

Last edited by CCN; 10/03/12 06:57 AM.