There is a question I have repeatedly received from many parents: How do you get your children to truly enjoy reading? My kids carry books with them to places instead of toys. Many parents complain that their children hate reading. They do not enjoy books and only read when they are forced to. A love of reading is the golden key you gift your child with. It is the key to knowledge, compassion, and understanding. To foster a love of reading in your child, here are some tips to implement.
1. Children learn by example. When children grow up seeing their parents and others around them read and enjoy reading, they start enjoying it too. My kids will watch me and ask what I am reading and if I enjoy it. This is a chance for me to tell them how rewarding and joyful reading is for me.
2. A child needs to grow in a literary rich environment. Books of different genres need to be readily available throughout the house. Reading to your children as early as 6 months old encourages a love of books and reading. Include nonfiction as well as fiction with pictures and exciting fonts to attract young eyes and curious minds. When your child is curious about something or has a question, search for the answer together in a book instead of Googling it or simply telling him/her. The child will associate the satisfaction of finding the answer to his question with books and reading.
3. Do not make reading a chore or forced activity. We never used reading logs or allotted reading times to encourage kids to enjoy reading. Some do not enjoy reading as much as others because they see it difficult. Just continue reading to the child and offering other books they may enjoy. Eventually they will pick up a book and maybe look at the pictures the first time. The next time they will try to make sense of the words or ask you to read it for them. While you’re reading you can point to the words and try to make it exciting. Eventually at their own pace and without pressure they will read more.
4. Do not compare one child to another or tell them they are behind or reading below grade level. This makes the child feel like a failure or that they are not good enough. The only comparison should be between that child now and what they used to be before. This is done to encourage the child and show them their progress. This helps the child understand that with practice and patience they can achieve their goals. Only a love for reading, learning, and discovering will lead them to become readers.
5. Minimize unbeneficial distractions. When a child is surrounded with hundreds of colorful noisy toys, video games, cartoons, and electronics all competing for his attention, it is less likely for them to read. Most of these provide entertainment while your child passively receives or with minimal effort on his part. Reading requires his attention and effort. It is natural for the child’s brain to pick the easy way to entertainment. The more simple and natural your child’s environment is, the more likely they will enjoy calming activities like reading. Choose simple open ended non-distracting toys to include in your home and mute the unnecessary noise.
6. Make reading together an activity you all enjoy and look forward to. When you are reading to your child, sit in a comfortable cozy place. Cuddle up or have the child on your lap while you read. Connect, bond, and enjoy your time together. The child will associate reading with comfort, connection, and happiness.
I hope you try to implement some of these in your home to empower your children with a love of reading.