5 Ways to Encourage Kids to Read

March is National Reading Month. Reading aloud to children is one of the most important activities that you can do together. It encourages language development and early literacy skills. 

Make this month as special as it is important as you celebrate reading with your children. Listed below are a few basic reading reminders to keep in mind as children learn to read.

Reading Basics:

1. Let your child choose the books of interest to them- this ensures they will enjoy the reading experience more. Reading the same books or book series repeatedly is okay.
2. For children three and older, occasionally ask your child if they would like to “read” the book to you. Avoid correcting any mistakes as they retell the story from memory.
3. Identify book parts together; cover, pages, spine.
4. Discuss and use the terms author and illustrator.
5. Point out the difference between a letter, a word, and a picture.
6. For children four and older, point out sight words as you encounter them. Do this with enthusiasm and in a fun way- be sight word detectives.

Here are a few fun ways to bring reading alive this month:

1. Buy a new book: Make a day of it and go to the bookstore. Allow your child time to walk around and find a book or two that you can read during special reading time, before bed, at rest time, or throughout reading month.
2. Host a book swap: Instead of a normal play date, invite a few of your children’s friends to participate in a book swap. This allows them to share some of their favorite books with their friends while giving them a chance to try a new book.
3. Make bookmarks: Gather some art supplies and make bookmarks so that your young reader can keep their place in some of their favorite books, or they can give them as gifts to their friends or grandparents!
4. Visit the Library: Grab your library card (or theirs) and check out the reading materials at your local library. Most libraries also host free activities for children of all ages. Check in and see what they are doing for National Reading Month or just pop in and take out some picture books or chapter books to create a memorable story time at home.
5. Introduce your favorite: Take some time to show your children your favorite book. Let them hold it, look at the cover, and give them a brief overview (this can vary depending on developmental levels.) Let them see you reading for fun occasionally, especially if they’re reluctant readers.

It is never too early to read to your children. Start early to lay a great foundation for learning and impart a love of reading that motivates your child to become an independent learner. Challenge yourself to take a few minutes every day this month to read aloud with your children. 

So enjoy this special month, use it as an opportunity to grow your child’s interest in reading at home and encourage your child to read right along with you as they grow!