Do you need help to get your young children excited about reading? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many parents struggle to instil a love for reading in their little ones.
It’s undeniable that a child’s reading skills are important to their success in school, work, and life in general. And it is very possible to help ensure your child’s success by reading to them starting at a very early age.
There are many ways we can encourage our children to enjoy reading and make it part of their daily routine.
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Create a Cosy Reading Nook
Creating a cosy reading nook is one way to make reading appealing to your child. Find a comfortable corner in your house to set up a unique reading space. Add fluffy pillows, a soft blanket, and a shelf with age-appropriate books. This designated area will make reading time feel special and inviting for your child.
Make Reading a Family Affair
Children often model their behaviour after their parents, so it’s essential to show them that reading is enjoyable and valuable. Create a family reading tradition where everyone gathers to read their favourite books. This not only promotes literacy but also strengthens family bonds. Ask your child questions about the story or encourage them to read aloud to the rest of the family. Reading a shared experience will instil a sense of joy and togetherness in your child.
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Explore Different Genres
To keep reading exciting:
- Introduce your child to various genres.
- Offer diverse books, including adventure, fantasy, mystery, or even non-fiction.
- Visit the library or local bookstore together and let your child choose their interests.
Allowing them to explore different genres will pique their curiosity and keep their love for reading alive.
Watch the Movies first then read the book
A lot of popular children’s books have been made into movies by companies like Disney and Pixar. It’s a good idea to watch the movies first before the child reads the book, there will be an incentive to pick up the book to be reacquainted with the characters and relive the story from the movie.
Teach them to quit
Many children will begin to read a book and then stop as they don’t enjoy it but feel compelled to finish it. The motivation to read that book won’t be there and it will take longer to finish the book, if at all. It’s ok for children to stop reading something they don’t like or can’t get into. Change the book, find another genre, even picture books and comic books are books and as much as we would like children to read full chapter novels, they need an incentive to enjoy reading. So let them read the comic book with pictures as long as they also read a good novel.
Incorporate Technology
In today’s digital age, technology can be a valuable tool to enhance your child’s reading experience. Consider using e-books or interactive reading apps with engaging visuals and interactive elements. These technological tools can make reading more captivating for young minds. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance and ensure that your child still gets plenty of exposure to physical books.
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Reward Reading Milestones
Children thrive on positive reinforcement, so why not reward their reading milestones? Create a fun reading chart and track their progress. When your child completes a book or achieves a reading goal, mark it with a sticker or a unique stamp. Once they reach certain milestones, they celebrate their achievements with a small reward, such as a trip to the bookstore or a favourite treat. This rewards system will motivate your child to continue reading and make the process more enjoyable.
Engage in Book Discussions
Engaging in book discussions with your child is an excellent way to foster their love for reading. After finishing a book together, ask open-ended questions to spark their imagination and critical thinking. Please encourage them to share their favourite parts, discuss the characters’ actions, or predict the story’s ending. These conversations enhance their comprehension skills and make reading a collaborative and exciting experience.
Lead by Example
Children look up to their parents, so be a reading role model. Let your child see you engrossed in a book, discuss what you’re reading, and share your excitement about stories. When your child sees that reading brings joy to you, they will be more inclined to develop a similar passion.
Conclusion
Reading should be a source of joy and wonder for young children.
Reading is the key for lifelong learning, and if you can instil a love of reading at an early age, then a commitment to lifelong learning is sure to follow. Reading aloud presents books as sources of pleasant, valuable, and exciting experiences. Children who value books are motivated to read on their own, and will likely continue to practise independent reading throughout the rest of their lives.
Remember, the goal is not to make reading a chore but to foster a genuine love and appreciation for stories and knowledge. So, let’s embark on this delightful reading journey with our young ones and watch their imaginations soar through the pages of their favourite books!
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Key benefits of the FCL Programme:
- Speed
- Improved errors
- Independent learning
- Discipline
- Structure
- Recall and retention
- Confidence in child
- Preparation for exam conditions
- Getting ahead and staying there
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