Show your child that reading is enjoyable and rewarding
Strong reading skills make it easier to learn every school subject. But literacy experts say that to build reading abilities, children must want to read. Unfortunately, many kids just aren’t interested.
To inspire your child to read:
- Listen to audiobooks. This is an effective way to show a reluctant reader how interesting books can be. Download audiobooks from the library, or record yourself reading aloud. Your child can follow along with the book while listening.
- Follow current events. Is there a developing news story that interests your child? Read the latest reports together each night.
- Sign your child up for a pen pal. Kids love receiving mail and learning about life in other countries. Ask your child’s teacher or a librarian about how to get involved.
- Take a virtual field trip. Challenge your child to research online about attractions in your area, such as museums. Then ask your student to be your tour guide through their websites and share interesting facts.
- Give reading coupons. Show your child that you think reading is special by giving reading coupons. Some might be for 30 minutes of reading with you. Others might be good for a new book. Reading coupons also make great rewards for good behavior.
Reprinted with permission from the September 2023 issue of Parents make the difference!® (Elementary School Edition) newsletter. Copyright © 2023 The Parent Institute®, a division of PaperClip Media, Inc.