How to Raise
a Reader
Kids
become lifelong readers for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes there's one key
book that captures a kid's imagination and opens him or her up to the exciting
world of fiction. Other times, a teacher who assigns great books in class
sparks a hunger for more big ideas and fine writing. In some cases, parents
influence kids' appreciation of books by sharing their own love of literature
and modeling reader behavior -- always having a book to read, taking books on
vacation, reading before bedtime, making regular trips to the library and
bookstore, etc.
Here
are our best tips for nurturing a love of reading that can last a lifetime:
Read
aloud:
This comes naturally to lots of new parents, but it's important to keep it up.
Kids will enjoy it longer than you think. For babies, toddlers, preschoolers,
and kids in early grade school, it's wonderful to have a kid on your lap,
snuggled next to you on the couch, or drifting off to sleep in bed as you
enjoy picture books together. You may have to read your kid's favorite a
hundred times, but just go with it. Your kid will remember the closeness as
well as the story. And try nonfiction for those who are curious about pirates,
Vikings, robots, castles, history, sports, biography, animals, whatever. For
second through fifth graders, read those rich and meaty books that might be
missed otherwise.
Many
parents think that as soon as their kids learn to read on their own, they no
longer need to be read to. But kids still love it and benefit from it as they
hear the rhythm of the language, learn correct pronunciation, and get to relax
and just take it all in. Kids will get the idea that there's something
worthwhile in books and that there's something special about time spent with a
parent.
Savor
the series:
It's common for kids to become book lovers for life after getting hooked on a
series. And there are lots of good ones that keep kids hungry for the next
installment.
Grab
onto a genre:
Kids go through phases of genres they're passionate about.
Don't get hung up that these may not be good literature.Be happy that your kid
is devouring books one after the other.
Feed
the favorite-author addiction: Once
your children finds a writer they love, they may want to read all of his or
her books -- a great excuse for a trip to the library or an opportunity for
book swapping among friends and classmates.
Count
on the Classics:
Books are called classics because they continue to engage readers generation
after generation. There are no guarantees, but you could try introducing your
kids to books you loved as a kid and see which ones click.
Find
Books About the Things Your Kid Loves:
Librarians,
booksellers,
and Internet searches will help you find books on any favorite topic.
Funny
Is Fine: Some
parents wrestle with letting their kids read edgy
humor books about kids getting in trouble. Talk to your kids about the
content, but keep in mind that kids like these books not because they want to
imitate the characters' actions but because they can live vicariously through
their bad behavior. Humor is a great pathway to book loving.
Comics
Are OK: Graphic
novels are among the hottest trends in children's publishing, and they can get
kids hooked on reading. They
will eventually go on to more sophisticated reading.
Make
Reading a Family Value: Actions
speak louder than words. Take your kids to the library once a week or once a
month to get new books, make regular outings to your local bookstore, hunt for
low-cost books at used bookstores or second-hand shops, and show kids that
finding a good book is like a treasure hunt.
Fit
reading into your family lifestyle!
Set aside time for reading only -- turning off the TV, computer, and cell
phone. Encourage focused reading time, either for independent reading or
reading aloud. Take preschoolers to story time hours at libraries and
bookstores. For older kids, a parent-kid book club can be fun. Read to kids at
bedtime. Provide time and space for your kids to read for pleasure in the car
(if they don't get car sick!), on vacation, after homework is done, on their
own before bed. Warning: It could be habit-forming!
In Family
media management, Educational
issues byRegan
McMahon, on 01.10.12
(Adapted from
version as posted on the Commonsensemedia.com)