There is a strong correlation between “steady beat” and reading fluency and comprehension. Steady beat is a pulse that remains constant in music. (Rhythm is different from beat: Rhythm is always changing and is the organization of time in long and short note values).

According to the Los Angeles Times, the percentage of kindergartners with “steady beat” skills has dropped from eighty-five to ten percent over the last few decades.

With practice, emerging readers can improve their steady beat skill which helps their inner sense of timing and therefore their fluency. With improved fluency comes better comprehension. Neuroscientists have proven that reading fluency and steady beat are in the same part of the brain. Please click the link above: “Further Reading” for articles about steady beat and reading.

Note: Reading to a metronome is not recommended.