The very first time I read to my child, they weren’t even born yet. Sure, I might have looked a bit silly reading aloud to my baby bump, but I knew my little one could hear my voice. I wanted to immerse them in the enchanting rhythm of “Goodnight Moon” from the very start. I continued to read it nightly, and it became a beloved favorite. Now, as a teenager, that worn-out copy still holds a special spot on their bookshelf.
Raising a reader can be challenging, especially in a world dominated by screens and gadgets. However, you can nurture a love for reading in your children, starting before they can even recognize words, all the way to the point where they can dive into novels on their own. Here are our top tips, just in time for Read Across America Day.
1. Encourage a Love for the Library.
Libraries are a goldmine of books and engaging literacy programs. If possible, find a story hour for your child (virtual sessions are great too!). Make library visits exciting, and get your child a library card so they can choose their own books.
2. Incorporate Reading into Your Routine.
Just ten minutes of reading at bedtime can have significant long-term benefits. Research shows that reading with children from infancy boosts vocabulary and reading skills down the line. Plus, it’s a lovely way to bond before sleep.
3. Bring Stories to Life.
No one enjoys a monotonous reading experience. Use expression, sound effects, and different voices to captivate your little audience. They’ll love it, and you might even find it fun!
4. Create a Cozy Reading Space.
Transform reading into a delightful experience by setting up a cozy nook with blankets and pillows. Children will be more inclined to read if they have a special, inviting space to do so.
5. Let Kids Choose Their Books.
While it’s tempting to guide them toward educational material, allow your children to select their own reading material. Whether it’s comic books or magazines, what matters is that they’re reading.
6. Make Books Part of Celebrations.
Include books in holiday traditions, whether it’s a seasonal read tucked in an Easter basket or a Halloween-themed stack that comes out every October. This creates excitement around reading.
7. Use Movies as Motivation.
If your child loves films, use book-to-movie adaptations as a fun incentive. Read the book together, then enjoy the movie version as a reward.
8. Explore Audiobooks.
If traditional reading isn’t their style, try audiobooks. Platforms like Audible offer a variety of free stories for kids, which can be enjoyed at home or during car rides.
9. Set Up a Character Dress-Up Box.
Kids adore playing dress-up. Gather whimsical outfits from thrift stores and challenge your child to dress as their favorite literary character.
10. Model Reading Behavior.
Kids learn by watching. If they see you enjoying a book, they’re likely to want to read as well. Show that reading is a pleasurable part of your day.
11. Sign Up for Imagination Library.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library sends free age-appropriate books to children every month from birth to age five. Sign up at the Imagination Library website to receive this wonderful gift.
12. Embrace Repetition.
Little ones enjoy reading the same stories repeatedly. This helps with learning and retention. Encourage them to finish sentences as you read, pointing to the words.
13. Highlight Everyday Reading Opportunities.
Words are everywhere! Use everyday experiences to point out letters and words, making reading a fun and integrated part of their life.
14. Use Books to Navigate Life Changes.
Books can help children process difficult topics like grief, family changes, or new experiences. They can be a comforting resource during tough times.
15. Allow Flexible Reading Times.
If your child wants to read a little past bedtime, let them enjoy it. A flashlight can turn a simple reading session into an exciting adventure.
Books are accessible to everyone, whether from libraries, thrift stores, or bookstores. You can even organize book swaps with other parents or give subscription boxes as gifts. By showing your child the joy and creativity that comes with reading, you’re equipping them with invaluable skills for life. For more insights, check out this related post on how to raise a reader.
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In summary, fostering a love for reading in children can be achieved through consistent and enjoyable practices. By incorporating reading into daily routines, allowing choice in reading materials, and making it a fun and engaging experience, parents can instill a lifelong appreciation for literature in their kids.