Some children almost automatically become avid readers as soon as they learn how to understand the alphabet and how words are written. For other kids, this kind of interest doesn’t come naturally. There are so many new and exciting discoveries to make in the world, and a child can be forgiven for getting distracted from books along the way. However, reading is an essential component of raising a curious and happy child. Here are a few ways that you can encourage your children to have fun reading.
Tell Bedtime Stories
Making up your own stories on the spot and entertaining your child before they fall asleep is a great way to spark their imagination, build their love of stories, and entice them into the world of reading. By starting with this approach to storytelling, you capture your child’s curiosity without the pressure of learning to read. Of course, picking out a book to read aloud to your child at bedtime is just as effective. By making bedtime stories a pleasant routine, your children will grow up excited by stories.
Offer Plenty of Reading Material to Choose From
You never know what kind of books your child might like most. Some children follow in their parents’ footsteps when it comes to interests, but some have completely unexpected passions. This is why it’s important to offer reading options. Even if you don’t have the funds to splurge on hundreds of books, you can use a Book Outlet coupon to save money on books that your child would enjoy. Let them explore their interests and find genres that inspire them. You’ll be surprised what your children might pick out.
Encourage Your Child to Make Their Own Stories
While reading is the main goal, encouraging a love of stories is an effective method of leading a child to that point. Engage in imaginative play with your child and ask them questions that encourage them to be creative and construct their own stories or scenarios. This kind of stimulation is particularly good for teaching your child to tolerate being bored occasionally.
Lead by Example
Even if you don’t consider yourself to be much of a keen reader, it can be incredibly helpful if you read in the presence of your children. Seeing a role model enjoy reading will tell your child that this is an activity that is worth spending time taking part in. Talk about what you like to read and ask your child what they enjoy in a story. This kind of conversation about books can help to cement the idea that reading is worthwhile since adults make time to do it. It doesn’t matter what books you read, so long as you can make a habit of it.
If your children are not currently excited to read, avoid putting pressure on them, as this can have the opposite of the desired effect. Instead, read to them, give them choices, and let them discover that reading has more to offer than they expected.
