Parents and teachers alike have struggled for years to figure out why some kids just hate reading. However, by focusing instead on their bookworm-like counterparts, we may find the key to making reading more pleasurable for even the most reluctant reader.
1. Travel Without Leaving Home
Inspire curiosity by offering kids something different from what they experience in their day-to-day lives. Pick books from places or time periods different from your own. Once kids find a topic they're interested in, they'll be itching to find out more!
2. Show Them the Rewards
Kids often don't see the intrinsic value of reading. Show them the value with rewards they can see. Summer reading programs are great but with the summer ending, consider Pizza Hut's Book-It program, which rewards kids for meeting afore-set monthly reading goals. For more details, go to bookitprogram.com. Alternatively, you can work with your child to create your own reading rewards system at home.
3. Make the Choice to Change Your Voice
Make a habit of reading aloud with your kids; in doing so, you show your children that you find books to be a worthy pastime. Try differentiating between characters by giving them each distinct voices. Stop to talk about the pictures, and practice foreshadowing by inquiring as to what they think will happen next.
4. Shake Things Up
After reading the stories, take turns taking the characters on different adventures. What would these particular characters find fun? How would they react in different situations? By giving stories alternate endings and making up sequels, kids are able to understand the characters and their motivations on a deeper level.
5. Mini Field Trip
Set aside an hour or so to visit your local library or bookstore. Let the kids peruse the shelves for books that pique their curiosity. Many of these book-nooks offer readings, usually for free. Check your local library for listings.
Happy reading! Get 5 More Tips to Get Kids Reading Here
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