The Best Ways to Encourage Your Child to Read
Encouraging your child to read more is one of the best steps any parent or caregiver can take. It is common to wonder what is the best way to help children improve their reading skills while simultaneously fostering a love of reading within the child. In this post, we will take a look at a few tips!
Tip One: Lead by Example
One of the best ways to encourage a child to read is for them to see you reading. Reading anything is a step in the right direction. The key is that your children see that you not only love books, but that you love information and actively seek it out. Furthermore, you should discuss the books that you are reading with them and what you like about each one. Children, especially young children, look to their parents for cues on how to navigate the world. If you want your children to love reading, you should show that you feel the same way!
Tip Two: Reading Material Availability
It is difficult to overstate the importance of having books available for children to read. By having age appropriate books on hand, you are increasing the chances that your children will explore those books or eventually take interest in them.
Tip Three: Opt for Interesting Books
Not all children’s books are created equally. By investing time to research and find books that are visually interesting and engaging, you will increase the chances that your child will read more. If you have friends with young children, ask them what books were “hits.” Another possibility is to research books online. Check out the parent reviews of books your child may find interesting; this can be a fast and easy way to learn a great deal about which books work and which ones don’t.
Tip Four: Build on Existing Interest
All children are unique. Whatever your child is interested in - whether it's rabbits, rutabagas or race-cars - invest the time to find reading material on that topic. This is a very important step as it shows that you are listening to your child and taking his or her interests into consideration. If a book appeals to an existing interest, it is far more likely to be read again and again!
Tip Five: Set Aside Time to Read Together
Young children love spending time with their parents. If you make reading together a regular activity, you will see results. It is important to be patient and consistent with your reading time. Reading books should be seen as a special and fun time. Studies show that when parents read to young children, it increases their literacy skills.[1]
By combining these five tips, you will achieve results! Remember that children progress at different rates and speeds. You may sometimes feel as though you are not making enough progress, but don't be discouraged - children pay closer attention than we often realize!
Sources:
[1] http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/05/080512191126.htm