Terri Ramsey Beavers Good readers have a broader knowledge, a vast vocabulary, a powerful imagination, and a greater appreciation for the written word. It, therefore, makes sense you would want your child to devour books as they grow older.
If you want your little one to immerse themselves in the magical world of Harry Potter, get lost in the works of the Bronte sisters, or spend many hours reading the most excellent modern fiction, there are actions you can take to help your child fall in love with books. Read the below tips on how to turn your child into a great reader.
Lead by Example
Children often mimic their parents’ behavior. If you spend many hours in front of the TV, they will want to follow in your footsteps. If you would happily spend the day reading, they will be more likely to find a comfy spot and absorb a good book.
Leading by example will encourage your child to pick up the many books sitting on their shelf. Plus, you should talk to them about the books you are reading, which could encourage them to pick up a text that will spark their imagination. If you read daily, they will view it as part of everyday life.
Buy the Right Books
Dull and boring books could make your child want to put down a tale and switch on the TV. Help them to build a passion for reading by investing in the right books for their age and interests. Take the time to find books your son or daughter will want to read from front to back, time and again.
For example, you could pick up The Mole and the Sunglasses by Juliana Sheikh. It tells the tale of Mr. Mole, who leaves his cozy underground home to embark on an adventure in the big world above him. You also could trigger their imagination with Lilly & the Venus Fly Trap, which follows Lilly, who enjoys a magical adventure on the back of an intelligent bee.
Read to Your Child Every Night
Reading to your baby cannot only support their language development, but it could help them to develop a love of books. Take the time to read them a book they will enjoy every evening, which could help them to learn new words, develop an imagination, and drift off to the land of nod. It is the perfect way to end a fun-filled day.
Ask Them Questions
Improve your child’s enjoyment and comprehension by asking them various questions when reading books together before bed. For example, you could ask:
- What characters do you like best and why?
- What do you think will happen next?
- What would you do in the same situation?
Asking questions will help your child to follow the story and look at it from a new perspective. It could then increase the likelihood of them picking up a book over switching on the TV or playing a video game.