5 Creative Ways to Make Kids Love Reading
In today’s technology-focused world, it can feel as though a million different gadgets and gizmos are vying for our attention—and our kids’. From smartphone games to TV streams to YouTube, children are more distracted than ever, and it can be hard to get them to sit down and read. Many parents worry that their children’s interest in books will decline.
Although it is important to encourage children to read, experts say pressuring children to sit down with a book can be detrimental to them. “We want to get kids reading, but they are under increasing pressure to do so, and it can overshadow the joy of this wonderful, shared activity,” says Lesley University professor Nancy Carlsson-Paige, Ed.D.
So how do we find balance? How do we raise readers without forcing children to read or making them feel pressured to do so?
Although it can be challenging, we at SOAR High know that the rewards of raising children who love to read far outweigh the difficulties. Read on to discover some of our favorite tips and tricks to get busy, distracted kids to sit down with a book—and really enjoy it.
- Read the book, then watch the film as a family. Many classic kids’ books have been adapted into movies: Harry Potter, The Polar Express, and Where the Wild Things Are are just a few examples of celebrated books that have been turned into beloved films. Read the book with your child, then plan a family movie night to experience it together in live action. Don’t forget the popcorn!
- Start a conversation with your kids. Children are naturally curious, and they love to share their thoughts and opinions with you. After they read a book or chapter, ask them questions about it. Questions like, “Who is your favorite character?” or “What was the major problem the characters had to solve?” can encourage children to think more deeply about what they’ve read. It can also give you a sense of how well they’re comprehending the story.
- Learn about different authors with your children. Learning is all about making connections. If you and your family take an interest in a particular author’s life story or personal accomplishments, it can inspire young readers to seek out more books from that author. Reading an article about an author, then sharing what you learned with your child, is a great way to encourage them to think differently about reading.
- Try audiobooks. For readers who lack confidence, hearing someone else fluently and expressively read a book aloud can be a great motivator. Instead of listening to the radio on the way to and from school, try an audiobook.
- Find books that relate to your experiences. Did your little one lose their first tooth? Pull out Llama, Llama, Loose Tooth Drama for a fun, silly take on loose teeth. Kids get mud all over their soccer shoes? Try Pete the Cat, a singalong book about a cat whose shoes change color with every sticky substance he steps in. Older child babysitting for the first time? Introduce her to the beloved Babysitters’ Club series! Content that is relevant to children will naturally entice them.
It’s never too late to develop a love of reading. Our literacy specialist here at SOAR High tells us, “Any and every child can become a great reader. All it takes is a little assistance to build their confidence and develop the skills.”
For more ideas on raising children who love to read, or to find out how SOAR High can help your child overcome reading obstacles, contact us today!
