How to get your child to love reading

It’s hardly surprising that many kids don’t fancy reading. If your child is one of them here are some ideas that you can instantly implement around the home to encourage budding bookworms and turn reluctant readers into enthusiastic book lovers:

1) Invest in books based on their interests.

Drop by your local bookstore or library and look for books relating to the interests and hobbies of your children. They are more likely to pick up a book that is relatable to their favourite things compared to random topics or titles.

2) Leave all kinds of interesting books and magazines lying around the house and allow your child to “discover” them.

3) Make it a habit of reading while you’re at home and ensure that your child notices you reading in your spare time.

4) Explore the children’s section of your local library or bookstore together with your child.

This is also a great time to get your child his or her very own library card, too!

5) If your child has a younger sibling, encourage them to read out loud to their younger brother or sister.

Older children typically enjoy showing off their skills to an admiring audience.

6) Invite your kids to play word games such as Scrabble, Boggle or Typo.

7) During dinner, encourage your children to share what he or she has been reading.

This encourages healthy discussions and encourages your children to read more stories to talk about.

8) Set a regular reading time in your family’s day-to-day routine.

It could be 20 minutes before bedtime or just after dinner, as long as the time slot does not interfere with any other homework your child may have. Reading for as little as 10 minutes a day can drastically improve your child’s reading skills and habits in just a couple of months.

9) Present your child with books or magazine subscriptions during special occasions like birthdays and on Christmas.

10) Set up a mini library at home to display your child’s collection of books.

11) Spend an evening with your children and a hearty joke book.

Take turns reading the jokes to each other for a fun-filled time.

12) Keep TV time and book reading time separate in your child’s daily schedule.

Remember too, that TV should not be a reward or punishment for reading/not reading a book.

Can enrichment centres help build better literacy skills?

At enrichment centers, children not only learn to read and write better but also develop extended literacy skills such as comprehension, grammar, spelling, drama, public speaking and creative writing. Programs like these are especially recommended for busy and first-time parents as it allows them and their children to participate in small groups and learn about literacy materials together. These enrichment programmes reinforces literacy skills and guide parents on how they can help their child develop language, reading and writing skills at home in an effective manner.