As I struggle to get my seven year old to read and remove his prying eyes off television, I wonder how I took to reading at a very young age. As far as my memory goes, I was never advised or forced into reading by anybody but discovered the joy of reading entirely by myself. However among the current generation reading books has a huge competition in the form of television ,mobile and video games . Our curiosity is aroused and imagination is kindled making us visualise each scene only while reading a book. Children are attracted to the visual media like video games which kills their creativity and imagination.
Studies show that reading has great benefits for children and it is good to inculcate the reading habit from a young age.Regular reading habit gives a huge advantage for children over their peers. Reading is also a stress buster and could well help children in their later years giving them strong mental and emotional stimulation.
Besides improving their concentration levels and imagination, it improves their linguistic skills, confidence and general knowledge. A child who reads with interest can interact with others with high self confidence.
Inspite of knowing this parents find it increasingly difficult to get their children into reading with so many distractions around. A well read child is definitely a smart child .So how do you get a child to read in such a challenging environment?Here are some ways you can employ.
Get them to read in a calm environment like your own garden or at a park. This kind of a surrounding away from gadgets kindles their interest. The quieter the surroundings the more interested they would be.
Get their friends to join them too. Encourage them to discuss what they have read.This creates a mutual interest and challenges them into reading new books.
Spend some family reading time together. Alternately, reading out to them from a very young age will kindle their interest. Also surround them with some interesting books at home which interests them.Attractive books around them will make them want to choose and read them.
Tell them interesting stories or tidbits which you've read in a book and let them be tempted into reading. This would also prove as an inspiration to them. Parents should set an example if they want their children to read .
Take them to a library . They can find all genres of books and it encourages reading habits. They can always select their favourite authors and the wide variety available is sure to interest them
Never force a child to read. If he is rebellious and refuses to stop watching his favorite program arrive at a compromise allowing him a time frame to finish his favorite program and then read.Setting aside a regular time for reading in a busy schedule would be a more sure shot way to make sure your child reads. Reading should be a pleasure and not become a chore.
Appreciate him when he completes his book and praise his effort. He would try more to please you.Gift him books as a surprise. Books as gifts are the best gifting options and can be cherished and treasured by all.
Do not force him into reading a particular book. Let him select his genre. However do try to introduce him to different genres and let him choose.Slowly your child's tastes would develop and he will be confident to choose his own books.
Lastly do not expect him to be an avid reader like the kid next door. Each kid has their own speed and do not be disappointed if he is a mild reader.Early reading habits help in identifying if reading problems exist and patiently help your child overcome them
From a very young age start reading out to your child and slowly as he grows older introduce and indulge him into this useful habit which could be one of your biggest gifts . Watch your child grow in knowledge and self confidence by introducing him to the wonderful world of books.
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