Reading is one of those fundamental skills that should be fostered in a child. But it can be difficult in this day and age with all of the distractions taking place. Here are ten great tips to foster a love of reading in your child.
1. Model Good Reading Behavior
One of the best ways to get them to love reading is to surround them with people who do; this is one of the best benefits of charter schools in Utah. If they see other children reading, they’re more likely to pick up a book too.
2. Create A Reading Nook
Have a friendly area of your home where your child can feel comfortable reading whenever they want. Pile up some pillows and blankets, maybe even have a stash of their favorite snacks nearby, anything that helps them feel more comfortable while reading.
3. Travel with Reading Material
Children can easily get bored when you’re traveling, so put books in the car. They can read while you’re driving or have something to do while you’re waiting in a doctor’s office. It’s a great way to keep them entertained while still keeping them occupied.
4. Get A Library Card
Supporting your local library is one of the best ways to foster a love of reading in your child. Most communities have free library access and offer reading programs where children can win games and prizes during the summer when school is out.
5. Read What They Read
Follow your child’s interests in what they’re reading and get involved. You’ll have more to talk about with your child and lets them know that you also care about their interests. They’re more likely to feel supported and heard, as well as build their self-confidence.
6. Read Before Bedtime
You can spend quality time with your child by reading a book to them when they’re in bed. When you read out loud, it helps your child to imagine the words and brings the story more to life. You can even ask them questions about what’s going on in the story so that they’re engaged in what is taking place.
7. Keep Books Around
If there’s always a book within reach, then your children are more likely to pick one up and read. Even if it’s just a few minutes spent figuring out what the book is about, at least they’re showing interest in reading.
8. All Reading Is Good Reading
Teach your child that all reading is good reading, regardless of what their interests are. From reading a cookbook to kids’ magazines to comic books; they all teach children something about the world so that they don’t have a narrow view of what’s out there.
9. Reading With Friends
Start a small book club with friends so that children can read the same book and discuss their opinions about it. These conversations can teach them alternative perspectives that they may not have considered before.
10. It Makes a Great Gift
For an avid book lover, a book is always the greatest gift. Families and friends can offer gifts of books during the holidays or the child’s birthdays. Even when your child has learned how to read, keep reading to them. This can help you to build long and lasting relationships with them throughout their childhood.
