5 Ways to Get Your Child Reading

1.  Let your child choose what they want to read

Reading is for pleasure and children are not going to read if they are forced to or are not interested in what they’re reading. Talk to them about their interests to see what kinds of books best fit them. Provide positive encouragement rather than saying, “You want to read that?” Children will be a lot more responsive if they know that their parents support their choices and you will see a difference in no time.

2.  Be a role model

If your child sees you reading, then they are more inclined to read. If you make reading a regular part of the day or part of the family, then that will encourage them to want to read. Children learn a lot from the actions of others, especially their parents. Also, talk to them about the importance of reading and how it will benefit them in life and in school.

3.  Take away the electronics

Technology is taking over people’s lives these days, especially children. Most of their day is spent playing video games, watching TV, playing on their phones, or surfing the Internet. Start a family rule in which there is a 2 hour period that the children cannot use technology or have them turn off all technology a couple of hours before they go to bed. During that time, they can choose to do something else like read, write, color, draw, play an instrument, or doing something else productive.

4.  Read aloud with your child

Take turns with your child reading pages out loud. You can also provide stopping points in which you discuss what has been read. Don’t be too critical when your child is reading. It is okay to correct them from time to time but if you stop them every single time they make a mistake, then that can turn them off to reading. Remember, positive reinforcement.

5.  Make regular trips to the library

If you pick a day each week that the family goes to the library to get a new book, then they will incorporate this in part of their lives too. It’s best to start this with kids when they’re younger but it’s never too late! There are so many books to choose from at the library, and the best part about this is that they’re free! Soon, they will get excited about what new books are out and this will help inspire them to want to read.