When my son first started reading, the mere mention of books didn’t excite him. He saw it as just another school task, and our reading sessions were filled with frustration. I soon understood that for him to genuinely enjoy reading, my strategy needed an overhaul. I began to introduce elements of fun and enthusiasm into our reading routine. The outcome? Not only did he begin to enjoy reading, but it also became a daily ritual. For parents with budding readers, here are some tried-and-tested suggestions:
Select Engaging Books
It’s evident that kids are more inclined to read when they find the subject captivating. My son is always eager to pick up books that cover his favorite topics – be it animals, hobbies, or beloved characters. Choosing books that resonate with them can significantly enhance their understanding and memory of the content, ensuring they’re eager for the next reading session.
Experiment with Different Reading Spots
A change of scenery can be quite invigorating. Whether it’s a cozy reading nook in a blanket fort, a spot under the open sky, beneath the bed, a bubble-filled bathtub, a treetop hideout, or even a closet rendezvous with just a flashlight – let your kids decide. This simple change can make reading feel like an adventure.
Introduce Exclusive Reading Treats
Have some snacks that are reserved solely for reading time. What’s more enjoyable than diving into an enthralling story with your most-liked treat by your side?
Incorporate a Reward Mechanism
Positive reinforcement works wonders with my kids. A rule we’ve set at home: before indulging in any screen activities, they need to read for a minimum of 20 minutes. Interestingly, they often become so engrossed that they read way past the set time. Earlier, mornings would see them rushing to the TV. Now, they’re aware of the prerequisites before screen time. Another treat they love is our family movie nights, where we watch films adapted from books they’ve finished. Remember, the rewards needn’t always be materialistic – discover what kindles your child’s interest.
Reading stands as a pivotal skill for children. And while parenting young readers calls for immense patience, the journey of nurturing independent readers isn’t always smooth. I have two eager readers, and it’s a challenge ensuring both get equal attention during reading sessions. I constantly fret about them losing focus when I’m not around. But, a recent find, the Reading Starz app, has been a savior. It ensures they remain engrossed in their books even in my absence.
