It's funny how at some point, we all couldn't tell apart a sentence from random gibberish that was written down. Yes, that's right, we all couldn't read at some point but had to learn this basic skill and now it seems impossible to imagine not being able to read. As a parent, you have to set the foundation that will allow your child to decipher words, comprehend them and understand them. So as your child approaches the age where reading is a necessity, here are some ways that you can make use of to encourage them to read.
Use Pictures
One of the most engaging ways to spark your child's interest in reading is through the use of pictures. This is because pictures play into one’s imagination, and it is very difficult to forget something once you attach a mental picture to it. You should, therefore, invest in buying picture books for your children, as this will attract their interest and encourage them to want to read. This will make reading more interactive and fun, striking interest in your child to start wanting to read, even without you around. By making reading fun and adventurous through pictures, not only will your child start gaining an interest in reading, but they will also be able to have improved comprehensive skills.
Make It a Routine
We all know the importance of a routine in ensuring that something is embedded in us and that we make a habit of it. Therefore, establishing a reading routine can prove very useful in solidifying your child’s interest in reading. It becomes more or less the same as them being programmed to want to read at a specific time without finding the reading daunting. So, whether it's at home, school or a specific time that you've set aside to meet your child's schedule, ensure that you consistently help your child read and naturally, they will be conditioned to develop a liking for books and reading. Ultimately, this routine can give you quality bonding time, making the experience even more enjoyable for both of you.
Model the Behaviour
I’m sure by now you have taken note of how your children are like your miniature mimics. When you do something that fascinates them, chances are that they follow behind and try to do the same thing. Therefore, because your child thrives on observing and then mimicking if you want them to develop a liking for reading, convey that behaviour yourself. You cannot expect your child to want to read when they have never seen you holding a book in your entire life. For them to develop an interest in reading themselves, you should, therefore, develop an interest in reading yourself. That way, as you are flipping through your favourite magazine or the newspaper, you will find them also going to grab their storybooks and sit down to mimic your behaviour.
Prioritise Reading to Them
If you want to encourage your child to read, make it a point to read aloud to them as much as you can. In doing that, make it fun by mimicking the tone and voice that you think that character would have had. This will make reading time fun and because it taps into your child’s imagination, they will remain intrigued and develop an interest in reading. Whether it's a bedtime story or a camping story, make sure you read to your child so that they can grasp the concept of reading. Otherwise, if you just flip through pages, they won't be able to comprehend what you're doing. You can even go on to ask them about what they thought about the story and by further engaging them, they will also want to engage with you, developing their love for reading.
Use Books That Have Their Interests
You know what your child has shown interest in the most. Whether it's butterflies, nature, food or toys, you can tell what sparks your child’s interest the most. By therefore tapping into your child’s unique interests and getting them books on the things they like, you will encourage them to read. Due to their passion, it's most likely that they will make an effort to want to go through the book themselves. Therefore, don't just go into any bookshop and grab a generic book to read to your child. Instead, play into their interests as this will make reading feel like fun and not like a chore.
Reward Progress
A concept that children can easily understand and comprehend that will make them develop a positive outlook on reading is positive reinforcement. When you reward your child for reading, it will let them know that they are doing something right. In turn, they will want to keep doing that thing right so that they get to achieve a desirable outcome (which is rewarding them). So, every time your child finishes a book, it is important that you recognize their effort and appreciate it by rewarding them with small gestures. Positive reinforcement has been proven useful, and if you use it in your child so that they develop a liking for reading, you will succeed.
Be Patient
Never rush your child when it comes to developing sustainable lifestyle changes. This is because if you rush them and prove to be impatient, they will probably become more resistant to it. Instead, practise patience and be supportive towards your child’s pace of reading. By making them feel safe, they will become more confident and eventually thrive in reading.