Raise A Book Lover

By
John Cahal
 – September 20, 2011Posted in: Blog

The art of reading can be a wonderful activity to expand the mind and imagination of a person. For children, imagination is the foundation for their personalities and creative sides. But reading can present a challenge to some kids, causing them to dislike reading all together. Here are some tips parents can try to help their child love books.

  1. Start At A Young Age
    If your children are in preschool and learning to adapt to the school environment, introducing them to books at this age is a great way for them to learn about reading. If you’re reading to them, choose a chapter book. If they’re learning to sound out words, try something simple like Dr. Seuss.
  2. Your Child Will Decide When To Advance
    If you’re child is 5 but still reading a little kid’s book, don’t panic. Your child needs to learn to read at a pace that is comfortable for him or her. Children will let you know when they’re ready to move on.
  3. Don’t Judge The Material
    Whether your child prefers comic books instead of fairy tales, that’s fine. As long as children are motivated to read, let them choose the material that interests them. They will eventually move on to other types of stories.
  4. “Bonus” Book Time
    Some parents award “bonus” TV or video game time when they’re kids are being good. This can be used for reading as well. Award extra reading time for your child. Encourage him or her to earn that time to read.
  5. Read It, Act It
    Seeing the book come to life helps develop a child’s imagination. Role-play with your children and have them act out the story they read. Have fun with it! Record it so you all can see it.
  6. Publish Work
    Actually reading words isn’t the only way to interest children in reading. Have them take or draw pictures and then write their own stories to coincide with the photos. Watch their creativity at work.
  7. Book Club
    Book club’s aren’t just for adults. Inviting friends over to read the same book will get several children involved in reading. They can discuss the story and act out their favorite parts.
  8. Keep Reading
    If your child is comfortable reading by herself, that’s great. However, parents should not stop reading to them. Mothers and fathers can read at a higher level. Because of this, your child will be exposed to a higher grade-level that will help when he or she gets older.

Loving and appreciating books is just one step in the reading direction. ABC Phonetic Reading School can help further develop your child’s love for books. For more information call 1-800-538-7323.

About the Author

I started ABC Phonetic Reading School in 1988. Together with a team of experts in early child development and education, I began to develop a comprehensive phonics program. Since then, we have helped thousands of children gain the skills they need to become effective readers and successful in school. If you are interested in using ABC Phonetic Reading School, call us at 1-800-LET-READ (1-800-538-7323).