Have you been struggling to find ways to get your child interested in reading? You are in the right place! As parents, it can be challenging to pull our children away from their beloved screen time, but with the right tricks and tips in your toolbelt, your child will be breezing through books in no time!
Why is reading important?
There is truly no experience like engaging yourself in a good book and reading it from start to finish. Not only is it enjoyable, but it is an immersive experience that transports you to another life completely! Besides the experience itself, reading is important for the following reasons:
It can be a tool to find information
It increases a child’s imagination
It is good for literary skills
It inspires creativity
It improves cognitive development
You know the benefits, but your kiddo just doesn’t seem interested. Don’t worry! We have formulated a list of five intriguing ways to spark your child’s interest in reading:
1. Read about familiar characters
Are you having trouble translating your child’s love of TV into a love of books? There is no reason to forgo their favorite characters- start by choosing books based on their most loved television personalities! This can ease the transition by causing excitement and interest, while also honoring familiarity.
2. Set an example
Parents know how hard it is to accomplish any task without countless questions from their little one… reading is no different! Let your child see you utilizing your free time to read. It may sound simple, but don’t hesitate to try it.
3. Incorporate “reading time” into your daily schedule
While reading is always a goal, it’s so easy to catch ourselves at the end of a long day, having forgotten to make time for books. Make a conscious effort to include at least one book as part of your day, every day. Some ideas of times to initiate “reading time” could be:
During meals
During bath time
First thing in the morning
While driving in the car (if someone else is doing the driving!)
Before bed
4. Keep books accessible around the house
The wonderful thing about books is that they don’t have to be fancy or expensive to be enjoyed! Try to build your at-home library (2 or more books count!) by sharing with friends, visiting the library, or visiting a used books store.
The more books you have in common places in your home, the more likely your child will be to reach for them.
5. Visit the library weekly
Kids love going on outings! The library is a fantastic way to go out without having to spend any money. If this is an option for you, don’t miss the opportunity! Check with your local library to find out information about:
Storytime
Community events
Reading challenges
Book clubs
If your child isn’t familiar with books, there may be a transitional period as you work to find ways to incorporate reading into their daily life! Don’t worry, and keep in mind that it will be well worth it in the end. Happy reading!
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