the learnIng curve ALISON BOGLE Bogle is an Austin-based freelance writer and mom of three.
How to Help a Reluctant Reader Getting some kids to read is like pulling teeth. Actually, for most reluctant readers, pulling teeth would seem like a walk in the park— that’s how resistant they are to reading! While most of us would agree that reading is good for children, we might not know why. The American Library Association cites findings from multiple studies about the benefits of reading, including higher scores on achievement tests in all subject areas, greater content knowledge, increased reading comprehension, greater vocabulary, better spelling abilities, and a better understanding of grammar.
2. Let them choose. If your child is a Pokémon fan, check out Pokémon books! If your kiddo is gaga over penguins, a nonfiction book on penguins might get her excited. When kids love the subject, they’re more likely to read. 3. Take turns. Reading with a parent can be enough motivation for some reluctant readers. Take turns reading sentences, paragraphs, or pages – whichever method is best for your child. 4. Keep it casual. Too much pressure to read makes reading seem like a chore; and no one likes to do chores!
5. Create some clutter. Pick out books similar to ones that your child enjoys and leave them in strategic places around the house, such as next to the couch or by his bed. He may just pick one up. 6. Embrace boredom. Screens are the enemy of reading time. Schedule some screen-free windows of time in your home to encourage your child to reach for a book instead of the remote. 7.
Model. If you sit down with a book on a regular basis, your child is more likely to do so. I like to be in front of the fireplace reading when mine
So, what is a parent to do if his or her child would rather take a bath or eat Brussels sprouts than settle down with a good book? Here are some great tips for helping nudge your child to read: 1.
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Mix it up. Not every child is inspired by books, so introduce a variety of materials, such as graphic novels, magazines, joke or riddle books, instruction manuals, or cereal boxes. It all counts as reading!
March 2020 austinfamily.com
When kids love the subject, they’re more likely to read.” View the magazine online at austinfamily.com.
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