With the age of technology and the rise of the use of gadgets, reading is probably no longer the most popular or loved activity to do to pass the time. Kids these days prefer playing online games and interacting on social media over reading books. As parents, you know how valuable reading is, specifically developing a love for reading. Your child gains comprehension and reading ability and enhances his communication skills. He also gets a new outlet to relieve stress since reading helps reduce stress and promotes relaxation and learning.
So how can you motivate your child to develop a love for reading? Here are three tips to help you and your child start the journey:
- Read and discuss.
Set an example, and read in order to encourage your child to do the same. You can try to set a certain time of the day or week just to spend time and read with him. Talk about the book you are reading and what you’ve learned from it, then see how he reacts. Seeing you enjoy what you are doing and actually doing what you are pushing him to do encourages him to give it a try. Once he starts to read regularly, you can start reading the same book and holding discussions about it. This allows your child the chance to share his views and learn from you. It also leads him to make reading a daily and fun habit.
- Choose and recommend.
Not having reading as a daily habit makes it hard for your child to know which books to read. You can start by letting him choose which ones he finds most interesting. Getting a book that he really wants to read will help boost his curiosity and reading ability since he is reading something he wants to read. After a few months, you can try searching for the most recommended book lists and encourage him to try reading these books. By this time, he will have already developed an interest in other genres and in well-written books.
- Visit and explore.
It is often said that being in a reading-conducive environment helps start your child’s love for reading. Visiting libraries and bookstores is a good start. You can research the nearest public/private library in your area, and sign up for library cards for both you and your child. Make this a weekly or daily habit that not only helps build his love for reading but also strengthens your relationship with him. Drop by the local bookstore to give your child more exposure to books. It also helps him appreciate the value and worth of books, which could also be the first step to him creating his own library.
