It would be difficult to find a parent that wouldn’t want their child to be an avid reader. Reading is a hobby that will not only help a child’s academic success, but it will also develop their creativity, imagination, introspection, and overall help to develop their understanding of the world. But as many parents know, not all children are inclined to pick up a book in their spare time. That is why we have decided to help out with a few simple and easy to implement tips on how to inspire your child to increase his or her desire to read.
Bond over the stories your child is reading
Depending on the age and preference of your child, you can find different ways to bond over your child’s book. Setting aside some time before bed to either read to them or to discuss what they have read together is not only a great way to set up a routine and ritual (which helps with sleep), but also allows you to have special time together. “Reading aloud is both educational and social, so there are layers of value there,” says Dr. Carlsson-Paige. Children learn to read best, and to love it, when they hear stories in a warm and meaningful context by spending quality time with their parents. They will grow up before you know it, so use this wonderful widow of opportunity while they are still young enough.
Make reading a book a suggestion, not an order.
Even if this means that they will not pick up a book today, over time this approach will be much more effective. Psychological studies on obedience have demonstrated that authoritarian parents (“my way or the highway” style of parenting) tend to lead their children to be more rebellious than children raised by authoritative parents, who try to listen to their children and build respect and trust over time. If your child hears you mention reading in a positive, but not pushy, way the idea will be planted in their mind. In addition, seeing you read on a regular basis will encourage them, as children learn by imitating you, not by what you say they should do.
Find creative ways to make them the initiator of what they read
Think of ways to have your child make a choice in what they will read. For example, you could take them to a bookstore or library each month and let them chose a book they find interesting. It will be a fun adventure and a bonding activity for the two of you. And it will also give your child the opportunity to explore the magical world of stories, and be the master of his or her choice. Reading the book they have chosen to them is also a great idea. Even if they are still too young to read the book themselves, this activity will show them how special reading can be.
Add a book for each meaningful event
Finding ways to show how important and helpful books can be doesn’t have to be complicated! One great way to do this, is by adding a book to important moments in your child’s life, to show them that books can be guides or empathetic friends during difficult times. For example, if your family is getting a dog or a cat, get a book about them. Or if your child is learning how to play football, find a book where that is a part of the story. This idea can also be applied to difficult times, such as when a loved one dies, or if they are getting bullied at school. In essence, you are showing them that they are human, will go through ups and downs like all of us, but that there will always be someone out there who understands exactly what he or she is going through.
If you have any questions or comments about what you have read, please do not hesitate to contact us at 02030867311 or info@ubertutors.co.uk. As an educational support service, we know how much effort and engagement goes into educating children. We are always here to assist you and your child in any way that we can in order to guarantee that his or her academic journey is as meaningful and successful as possible.
