I grew up with my nose perpetually in a book (much to the chagrin of my mother!) and when I became a mom myself I couldn’t wait to introduce my children to the books that had formed such an integral part of my childhood. The benefits of reading are well documented and raising a reader is one of the most rewarding (and fun!) experiences as a mom.
Here are a few ways you can get your child to pick up the reading habit:
1. Set an example!
If your child sees you reading, it’ll inspire him/her to pick up a book as well. Your interest and enjoyment in books and reading is bound to catch on.
2. Start early…
I started reading to my children before they were even born! I’d talk to the baby and read out a little something of whatever I was reading. I read books to my new born babies when they were mere hours old and have continued the practice till date, which brings me to my next point…
3. … And keep reading
Read to your children even when they have become independent readers. Re-read favourites, share passages from books you both love. It will reinforce your bond as well as foster a deep love for reading in your children.
4. Take a trip!
To the library! Libraries are a treasure trove of books and great places to discover new reads and authors or rediscover old ones. If you can’t visit a physical library, check out virtual ones that you can explore with your child.
5. Talk about the books you read.
Answer questions, encourage conversations around what your child is reading, find the meanings of new words together. Enriching conversations around the books we read as children, not only reinforce a love for books but also form lasting impressions and impart a world of learning.
Are there any book-tastic strategies that you’ve used to encourage your child to read? Do share in the comments below!
May we suggest: A book review of this unputdownable, gripping thriller.