Raising a Reader: Tips for Encouraging a Love of Reading in Kids
Today I am sharing the best tips for raising a reader.
I have been an avid reader my whole life. It's always been important to me to instill that in my kids as well. I started collecting picture books and board books before my oldest was even born. And the minute each of my children arrived, I was reading to them. We frequented the library weekly. Barnes and Noble was a fun rainy day activity. Reading is a core value for me as a parent.
Then, as life goes, they start to grow up. And with three kids in the elementary/middle school years, I no longer have as much control over what or how often they are reading. They have opinions - on everything! And school work, and friends, and devices. Sigh.
But all is not lost! The elementary years are the years that your child will learn to read, and then read to learn. It is prime time to encourage, inspire and grow a reader. And even with the many distractions in the world around them, there are ways to make it a priority.
As a mom, an elementary school teacher, and a reader, here are my best practical tips on how to encourage a love of reading during the elementary school years.
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How do you raise readers?
Tip #1: Read to your kids, often.
Reading aloud to your kids, even well after they can read themselves, remains one of the best ways to grow reading skills, encourage a love of reading and books, and foster connection. The benefits are too numerous to count.
If you want to read about the many benefits of reading aloud, I'd highly recommend the book 'The Enchanted Hour: The Miraculous Power of Reading Aloud in the Age of Distraction.'
Tip #2: Model being a reader.
You may have heard the phrase, 'more is caught than taught.' This is definitely true when it comes to raising a child who values and enjoys reading. Show your child that you value it to. Leave a stack of books on your bedside table, take your Kindle with you when you leave the house, introduce them to audio books, go to the library and look for your own books. Talk with them about what you are reading.
Tip #3: Let them choose books.
As my kids have gotten older, their book choices are not always what I would choose. You might be tempted to push back. However, let them choose, because when they find something they love, that's when the magic happens. Graphic novels, silly stories, favorite characters, joke books, books that they can't quite read yet, they all encourage excitement for reading.
Tip #4: Make it a habit.
Make time for reading everyday. Consistency is key when it comes to reading. Set aside a specific time each day for reading, whether it’s before bedtime, after school, or during a quiet morning moment. The more children associate reading with their routine, the more natural it becomes.
Tip #5: Create a cozy reading spot.
Designate a cozy reading nook at home with comfortable seating, good lighting, and easy access to books. A welcoming space can make reading more enjoyable and inviting for children.
Tip #6: Expose them to a wide variety of books.
Audio books, graphic novels, picture books, chapter books, magazines, nonfiction, fiction - there are so many options out there. Expose your kids to a variety of texts and let them explore different genres. You never know what they'll find and love.
Tip #7: Talk about books.
Fostering conversations during and after reading is a fantastic way for kids to build their comprehension and language skills, learn new vocabulary, talk about concepts and ideas that are new to them, and explore words and pictures in more depth.
Tip #8: Visit the library frequently.
Libraries are treasure troves of books and resources. Take your child on regular trips to explore new books, participate in reading programs, and discover different authors and subjects.
Tip #9: Incorporate reading into everyday activities.
Encourage reading beyond books by integrating it into daily life—reading recipes while cooking, looking at street signs, following instructions for games, or reading labels at the grocery store.
Tip #10: Use technology wisely.
E-books, audiobooks, and educational apps can supplement traditional reading. While screen time should be balanced, digital reading tools can be engaging and beneficial for young readers.
How can I motivate my child to read?
If your child is pushing back on reading at home, continue to model being a reader, and continue to read out loud to your child, regardless of their age. Talk about the books, and don't give up!
One of my favorite things to do as a family is read aloud a book that has also been made into a movie. We read the book together, and then watch the movie when we are finished. This is so much fun to do, and we have had so many great discussions about books in this way.
Check out some of my favorite books with movie adaptations below!
What are the best books to read as a family?
Here are just some of our favorite books (with movie adaptations) that we've loved reading and watching together.
Paddington
Lyle, Lyle Crocodile
Alexander and the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day
Ramona Quimby, Age 8
Charlotte's Web
matilda
The Tale of DesperEaux
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
because of Winn-dixie
The One and Only Ivan
Raising a Reader
Encouraging a love of reading is one of the greatest gifts we can give our kids. By making books accessible, engaging, and a natural part of daily life, we can help instill a lifelong love for stories and learning in our children.
For more on reading, check out how to find more time to read as a busy mom.
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