Reading at home
Let kids pick out their own books
Book choice is a strong motivation for readers young and old. Let kids pick out books at the library or bookstore. It's almost a sure thing they'll want to read them. If you pick them out, they won't.
Set goals and reward reading
Reward reading with more reading, we've always said. Stop by the library or bookstore for the next book in your child's favorite series, or let your child shop for it online. Most kids agree, but they don't also see a problem with more… well, extrinsic rewards.
Let your kids see you read
Read the newspaper over your morning coffee, take a magazine from the rack in a doctor's office while you wait, and stuff a paperback into your purse, pocket, or briefcase. Your kids will catch on to the fact that reading is something you like to do in your spare time.
Make reading together fun and memorable
Parents can convey important positive impressions about reading by making reading an experience their children will remember and cherish. It's not what you read to your child that counts; it's how. Make a story come alive by changing your voice and pace, or using sound effects and motions.
Create loving associations with books and reading
Reading together is a time for closeness and cuddling – another way to show your love as a parent, grandparent, or caring adult. For children lucky enough to have parents who read to them, the memory is lasting and their love for books and reading lifelong.
Book choice is a strong motivation for readers young and old. Let kids pick out books at the library or bookstore. It's almost a sure thing they'll want to read them. If you pick them out, they won't.
Set goals and reward reading
Reward reading with more reading, we've always said. Stop by the library or bookstore for the next book in your child's favorite series, or let your child shop for it online. Most kids agree, but they don't also see a problem with more… well, extrinsic rewards.
Let your kids see you read
Read the newspaper over your morning coffee, take a magazine from the rack in a doctor's office while you wait, and stuff a paperback into your purse, pocket, or briefcase. Your kids will catch on to the fact that reading is something you like to do in your spare time.
Make reading together fun and memorable
Parents can convey important positive impressions about reading by making reading an experience their children will remember and cherish. It's not what you read to your child that counts; it's how. Make a story come alive by changing your voice and pace, or using sound effects and motions.
Create loving associations with books and reading
Reading together is a time for closeness and cuddling – another way to show your love as a parent, grandparent, or caring adult. For children lucky enough to have parents who read to them, the memory is lasting and their love for books and reading lifelong.