Here are 14 simple tips for encouraging reading.
Try the following tips for getting your children engaged in, and excited about, reading.
1
Involve the child in choosing appropriate material � Taking ownership increases motivation, so find
books or magazines based on their hobbies and interests. Make sure the material is at a reading
level that is challenging, but not frustrating. See: www.bookadventure.com
2
Make a date with a librarian � Librarians will help locate books based on interests and reading
ability. Check out your library for summer reading programs and a huge supply of great books. See
attached flyer about summer reading at Roseville Libraries!
3
Lead by example � Actions speak louder than words so let your child see you reading the newspaper
or curling up with a good book. For younger readers, go ahead and read together with you reading a
page and them reading the next.
4
Point out reading everywhere � Show how important reading is in everyday life by asking them to
read the recipe while you make something together or read signs as you go about your day.
5
Set goals, chart progress � Setting and meeting goals increases pride and confidence. To keep track
of comprehension, visit www.bookadventure.com where kids can answer questions about the books
they read and get points that can be redeemed for prizes.
6
Learn, listen, and discuss � Asking good questions shows interest and helps the child read for
meaning. Instead of "Did you like the book?," use open ended questions that start with who, what,
where, when or how. Examples: "Which character did you like the best and why?" or "How would you
describe the book to someone who didn�t read it?"
7
Create a book-of-the-month for your child � Send them a book anonymously once a month. Kids
love getting mail and will see it as a present instead of a chore. (Note: This is a great way for
grandparents to get involved!)
8
Read the book, then see the movie � Use the excitement of an upcoming movie to get them to read
the book. Then see the movie and discuss the differences between the two versions. They�ll quickly
learn that books are better. This can be done with videos as well.
9
Bring books while you hit the highway � Books are terrific because they are portable and don�t need
any batteries or wires. Audio books are also great for getting kids to see the value in the great
stories found in books.
10
Give TV a timeout � According to a U.S. Department of Education study, the average kindergarten
student has spent more than 5,000 hours watching television. Cutting down on TV time will create
more time for your child to tune into reading.
11
Have a Bookshare � Get a group of kids and adults to read a book of their choice and then get
together and have everyone share their book and what they liked about it. Then swap books so
everyone goes home with a different book.
12
Reach out for resources � There are plenty of wonderful reading programs, book lists, and advice
out there. Seek out teachers, librarians, community education, and the internet for ideas and
assistance.
13
Write the author � Have the child write the author of a book they liked. This makes them feel special
and more involved with books. Many authors will write back which really adds excitement to books.
14
Make it FUN � Kids like doing things that they enjoy and are good at. The more they read, the better
they will get and the more they will want to read.
