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As a parent, you play a crucial role in cultivating a love for reading in your child. However, not all kids are naturally book lovers, as many are still uninterested in the world written pages offer. Here are five essential tips to help you build or foster your little one’s love of reading.
Never force your child to read
Forcing your little one to read should never be an option. Your child will be more engaged in reading if they have more freedom to choose their books. Encourage them, but never make reading compulsory, as it can create a negative impression on your child.
Create a safe and comfortable reading space
Creating a designated reading area for your child can be a game-changer in their reading journey. Choose a safe, distraction-free space in your home where they can read their favorite books to their hearts’ content. Ensure the area is quiet, has sufficient lighting, and is conducive for reading.
Add comfortable seating and make sure that the books are easily accessible but not placed in a compromising position. Get creative and insert book nook kits in the bookshelves to entice your little one to pick up a book and start reading.
Get the whole family involved
Reading can be an excellent bonding activity you can do with your family. Dedicate a fixed time every day when the entire household can sit down and read together. Select an area in your home where everyone can comfortably sit with minimal distractions.
Take turns choosing books to read, and give every family member free reign to pick out what they want to read, be it a magazine, newspaper, or comic book. Turning reading into a regular family affair will not only increase your child’s interest in reading, but these moments can also be part of their core memories.
Be a role model
Children generally learn by observing their parents. Modeling good reading behavior can motivate your little one to develop their own healthy reading habits. Take time each day to read in front of your child and show them how enjoyable it is to you. The more your child sees you reading, the higher the chances they’ll read themselves. If they have questions about what you’re reading, answer them patiently and take this opportunity to discuss books and the benefits of leisure reading.
Make reading fun
Children are more likely to read if they see it as a fun and memorable experience. Turn reading into an adventure by going to places or doing activities mentioned in their books. For example, if they were reading about sea animals, bring them into a popular aquarium so they can see them up close. If your child attends school, organize a book club with their neighborhood friends or classmates. They can freely discuss their favorite characters and gain various perspectives from their peers.
Endnote
Making reading appealing to your child need not be difficult. Follow these tips and always approach reading positively rather than as a chore your little one needs to accomplish.
