Easy Tips To Encourage Kids To Read
Parents, grandparents, librarians and teachers know that reading is fun, but kids need to discover the enjoyment on their own. Here are some simple tips that will encourage kids to read on their own.
When you bring children to the library, let them pick out their own books, of course. But take the time to choose some that you know they will find appealing, too. Then, leave the books out at home for the child to discover later.
Consider allowing children to read in bed for 15 to 30 minutes after their bedtime. Most children will welcome any excuse to put off 'lights out'.
Remember that reading skills improve even when the child is reading recipes, instructions, or directions: Ask your child to read them aloud to you while you cook, construct or drive.
Reading is a complex skill, and listening comprehension (understanding the meanings of words and their context) is a very important building block. Listen to audio books together (great for long car trips) to increase their vocabulary. It's so much easier to sound out a new word if you've heard it before.
Most importantly, if the child knows that you truly value reading, and enjoy reading, they'll be much more likely to want to learn themselves. Talk about your favorite books, read where they can see you doing it, and share funny or interesting sections of a book or magazine or newspaper article with them.
