How to Encourage Your Child To Read More

Hello there, super parents! Yes, I’m talking to you. Juggling work, house chores, and a pint-sized human who somehow always finds a way to outsmart us. Parenting – it’s not a walk in the park, is it? But let me let you in on a secret – it’s a stroll through a magical forest if we can ignite the passion for reading in our kids. Now, let’s dive into the all-important question: how to encourage your child to read?

Start Early, Start Right

Let’s start from the beginning, shall we? Reading to your tiny tot before they even understand what words are! Crazy, right? Not really. Research suggests that reading to babies can boost their vocabulary and reading skills four years later. So, grab a book, gather your little bundle of joy in your arms, and let the story unravel. (I know, easier said than done when they’re more interested in munching on the book!)

Books, Books Everywhere!

Your kid’s favorite toy? Place a book next to it. The breakfast table? Lay a book beside the cereal box. Their bedside table? Replace the teddy bear with a book. Okay, maybe not replace, but you get the gist. Surround them with books. Let them see you reading. Let them understand that books are friends, not foes.

Make Reading Interactive

Add a dash of drama, a splash of suspense, and a sprinkle of surprise. Reading shouldn’t be a chore. It should be an adventure. Take turns reading aloud, use different voices for different characters, and discuss the story. And if they drift off midway, don’t fret. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day!

Choose Age-Appropriate Books

Would you enjoy a book on quantum physics? Probably not. The same applies to kids. They won’t enjoy a book that’s too easy or too hard. Picking age-appropriate books is crucial. A good rule of thumb – if they can’t understand more than five words on a page, the book is probably too difficult.

Bridge the Gap Between Reading and Fun

One of the best ways to encourage reading is by incorporating it into their playtime. Our Fruits & Veggies Coloring Book is an excellent place to start. It’s not just coloring; it’s learning about fruits and veggies. The cherry on top? It’s just $5.89 on Amazon! You can check it out here.

Technology to the Rescue

No, I’m not suggesting handing them a tablet and forgetting about it. But technology can be a powerful tool if used wisely. Audiobooks, e-books, or educational apps can all be an excellent supplement to physical books. But remember, moderation is key.

Reading Encouragement: Rewards, But Make Them Wise

Rewards work, but make them wise. A new book for finishing an old one? That’s a great idea! An hour of video games? Maybe not.

Keep the Conversation Going

Discuss the books they’re reading. Ask about their favorite character, the most exciting part, or how they would change the ending. This not only improves comprehension but also makes reading a shared activity.

Help Them Find Their Genre

Just like adults, kids have their preferences. Some may love adventure, while others may prefer fantasy. Help them discover their genre. This can make the difference between them loving or loathing reading.

What To Say To Encourage A Child To Read

It’s not just about how to encourage kids to read, but also about what to say. Phrases like “I’m proud of you,” “You’re getting better at this,” or “Let’s find out what happens next,” can work wonders.

Phew, that was a lot of information, wasn’t it? But remember, every child is different. What works for one may not work for another. The key is to keep trying and never give up.

Now, as a parting gift, let me introduce you to our Under the Sea ABC Activity Book. It’s packed with fun activities like tracing letters, counting, and coloring pages. It’s the perfect blend of fun and learning.

So, super parents, are you ready to embark on this magical journey of encouraging your child to read? It might seem like a Herculean task now, but trust me, it’s worth it. And hey, don’t forget to check out our shop for more amazing coloring books. Your little Picasso would thank you!

Happy reading (and parenting)!

Sources:

Create • Learn • Grow.

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