Getting kids interested in reading is not the easiest thing to do. Technology has made reading boring and slow. However, kids can get excited about reading. They can get really involved in the stories they are reading if they are fun and engaging.
10 Things You Can Do To Get Kids Interested In Reading
1. Use What Interests Them
Kids will get more excited about things that they already like. If they like Minecraft, find books about Minecraft. If they like dinosaurs, find books about dinosaurs. When a child is passionate about a topic, they are more likely to engage.
2. Read Together
Older children can benefit from listening to stories – but younger kids LOVE hearing them. Engage your kids by pointing out parts of the story that are exciting. Ask them questions about the story. They will love shared engagement.
3. Create A Special Spot For Reading
This special space can be filled with pillows, blankets, snacks and great lighting. Make it a space that your kids enjoy and look forward to. Your engagement combined with the space can make reading a treasured activity rather than a chore.
4. Routine, Routine
Make the routine your own. Choose a time of day that works best for you and stick to that. If your child expects reading to happen at the same time each day, they’re more likely to engage. Expectations work better than spontaneity when you want your kids to do something they may not want to participate in.
5. Incorporate Technology
Screen time isn’t all bad! You can try out ebooks, audiobooks and interactive digital books. Utilizing technology does not limit the benefits of reading.
6. Give Them Choices
Kids love having choices and being able to make decisions for themselves. Let them choose the books they read, whether they read or you read aloud to them, print book or digital book. Giving children some autonomy can go a long way.
7. Use Book Series
Series are an excellent way to engage and keep kids wanting to come back to the story. The anticipation and excitement of the unknown and what could happen next will make reading way more exciting and fulfilling.
8. Celebrate Milestones
Milestones and rewards can help get kids excited to read. Once your child reaches a milestone, let them celebrate! This can be as little as earning free time or as big as going out to dinner.
9. Join Library Programs
Libraries usually have reading challenges, especially in the summer. There is a community aspect that can be highly motivating.
10. Show Them Reading Is Fun
Kids imitate. They do what they see. If they see you reading just for fun, they’re more likely to want to read for fun. You don’t have to make a big deal about it – just sit with a magazine or a small book and make sure they see you doing it!
