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Congratulations on recognizing that the
importance of reading is not just in the classroom. Studies have shown
that students who regularly read for pleasure do better in all school
subjects and are less likely to be involved in drugs or gangs.
Of course, the best way to get your child to read is to
set an example by reading yourself. Keep books around the house and be
sure your child sees you reading for enjoyment. Plan quiet time (perhaps
after dinner) when you and your child relax and read. Make the reading
period a short one so your child doesn't lose interest or fell
"punished" (20 minutes or one chapter are good limits for an
8-year-old).
Become regulars at the library. Help your child apply for
his/her own library card. Make a regular date to visit--Saturday mornings,
for example. Again, encourage your child by borrowing books for yourself.
Be sure the library trip is a positive experience. Do not pass judgment on
your child's reading choices; the point is keeping him reading. Respect
his/her tastes. Develop a fun ritual for these outings: going for a
favorite lunch after; discussing the newest books over ice cream cones;
reading in the park together.
No matter what the age of your child, everyone loves
sharing reading aloud. This is an excellent opportunity for an older
sibling to spend quality time with younger brothers or sisters. Or, make a
special time for just you and that child. Alternate reading pages in a
book--one page your child reads; the next you read. Make up voices for the
characters as you read. Speculate about what comes next; discuss your
favorite characters; invite analysis.
My nephew, who is now 20, still fondly talks about the
summer when he was 12 and we read J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings.
His uncle is still prompted at gatherings to "do the Gollum
voice."
You might want to establish a summer reading goal (like 10
books) and agree upon a reward for when that goal is met (a trip to the
beach, for example). Make a chart to keep track of the titles your child
has read and to measure progress. Be supportive and encouraging.
Remember that reading doesn't just take place from books.
On outings to the zoo or to museums have your child read the information
plaques and exhibit information out loud. Take turns reading the posted
rules at the community pool or park. Read business marquees and billboards
as you drive down the street.
Enjoy a relaxing moment by planning a lazy Sunday morning
around a casual breakfast and reading the Sunday newspaper together.
Spread the paper out, turn on some orchestral music, lounge in your pj's,
and share sections of the paper together.
By turning your child on to reading at an early age, you
are helping develop a skill that will prove valuable and enjoyable for
his/her entire life! Happy reading! |
