fall in love with reading
How do I encourage my child to read?
We all know that setting an example is key. But we also know that reading whilst looking after the kids is almost impossible! Reading together is a great way to show your child how enjoyable reading can be, but it’s parents who usually end up reading, not the child. Playing book readers in the car instead of music, is also great, but again, it’s not your child who is reading! So how do you encourage your child to read independently?
Please feel free to try these great 10 tips & tricks from Brain Academy.
make a book
Together with your child choose their favourite topics. This could be animals, cars, or even cartoon characters. Research online interesting facts about their favourite topic. Then ask your child to replicate these facts into the book. Choose your pictures. These could be cut out from a magazine, printed out from a website or even better, your child could draw their own pictures. This is your child's special book! He/she will be proud to share and read with the rest of the family.
BECOME PEN PALS
Ask your child to write a letter to their grandparents or other family members and also encourage your family to reply 😉 It can be a wishlist for a Birthday, holiday plans or just simply how their week was at school. Your child will excitedly await their response and will eagerly read it. No help from mum or dad! It’s a private correspondence 😉
Adjust your bedtime time!
Allow your child to stay up 30min longer if he/she would like to read the book in bed!
My special space / book corner
It doesn't need to be a large space, it doesn't even have to be an extra space, it can be your child’s bed. Let your child to choose a blanky or bed cover, some comfy pillows and nice light and watch them enjoy their special space for peaceful reading!
Be my special helper!
Ask your child for help! When, for example cooking, ask your child to read the ingredients and steps to follow or look for fun lunch box recipes and ask your child to read out what you need to make his favourite dish.
Book Box!
Leave baskets with your child’s favourite books in strategic places! There where your child usually spends most of the time whilst at home. Near the sofa, by the lego table, in his/hers room by toy box etc. If it’s just there, easily accessible, they may reach for it!
One step at a time!
If the books are overwhelming, start with magazines! Find some kids magazines that are compatible with your child’s interests and hobbies.
BECOME BOOK PALS
Ask your friends if they want to do a book swap this school holiday. The children can choose and swap books. It’s always more exciting if you can try someone else’s favourite book!
LIBRARY TIME
Let your child choose whatever book they want! If it’s their decision, they are more likely to read the book!
Do YOUR research!
Find age appropriate funny, crazy books! If your children laugh while reading, they are sold!