Reading is one of the most important skills a child acquires. It’s the foundation of education and the key to lifelong learning and personal development. But how can we, as adults, help children truly learn to love reading? Here are some strategies that have proven effective.
Start early and make it a habit
The seeds of reading love are sown in infancy. Reading books to babies and toddlers helps create a positive association between books and relaxation, security, and love. Try to read to your child every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Consistency is key (Mol & Bus, 2011).
Make reading interactive
Children learn better when they are actively engaged. Ask questions about the book’s content, encourage the child to predict what will happen next, or ask them to retell the story in their own words. This helps develop critical thinking and creativity and makes reading more exciting (Whitehurst et al., 1988).
Let the child choose
When a child gets to choose what to read, their interest and motivation increase. Take time to visit the library or bookstore together and let them choose books that interest them. Don’t worry if they’re not always “quality” books – the important thing is that the child enjoys reading (Krashen, 2004).
Create a reading-friendly environment
Make reading easy and enjoyable at home. Create a comfortable reading corner, keep books accessible, and limit screen time to encourage reading as a form of entertainment (Neuman & Celano, 2001).
Be a role model
Children learn through imitation. If they see you enjoying reading, they’re more likely to do it themselves. Talk to children about what you’re reading and why you like it (Baker et al., 1997).
Use technology wisely
While traditional books are still important, e-books and educational apps can offer an interactive reading experience that can be particularly engaging for some children. Use them in balance with regular books (Korat & Shamir, 2007).
Connect reading to real life
Help the child see connections between the stories read and real life. This can include visiting places described in the book, cooking foods mentioned in the book, or carrying out activities related to the book (Guthrie et al., 2006).
Don’t pressure
Finally, it’s important to remember that reading should be enjoyable, not obligatory. Avoid using reading as punishment or reward. Instead, encourage and support the child on their reading journey, considering their pace and interests (Krashen, 2011).
Developing a love of reading is a process that requires time, patience, and a positive approach. Every child is different, so experiment with strategies to find what works best for your child. The main thing is to make reading an enjoyable and meaningful experience.
References
Baker, L., Scher, D., & Mackler, K. (1997). Home and family influences on motivations for reading. Educational Psychologist, 32(2), 69-82.
Guthrie, J. T., Wigfield, A., Humenick, N. M., Perencevich, K. C., Taboada, A., & Barbosa, P. (2006). Influences of stimulating tasks on reading motivation and comprehension. The Journal of Educational Research, 99(4), 232-246.
Korat, O., & Shamir, A. (2007). Electronic books versus adult readers: Effects on children’s emergent literacy as a function of social class. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, 23(3), 248-259.
Krashen, S. D. (2004). The power of reading: Insights from the research. Libraries Unlimited.
Krashen, S. D. (2011). Free voluntary reading. Libraries Unlimited.
Mol, S. E., & Bus, A. G. (2011). To read or not to read: A meta-analysis of print exposure from infancy to early adulthood. Psychological Bulletin, 137(2), 267-296.
Neuman, S. B., & Celano, D. (2001). Access to print in low-income and middle-income communities: An ecological study of four neighborhoods. Reading Research Quarterly, 36(1), 8-26.
Whitehurst, G. J., Falco, F. L., Lonigan, C. J., Fischel, J. E., DeBaryshe, B. D., Valdez-Menchaca, M. C., & Caulfield, M. (1988). Accelerating language development through picture book reading. Developmental Psychology, 24(4), 552-559.