How to Make reading fun for kids!
Unfortunately, reading can be polarizing for kids! Some children avoid reading. They lack confidence in their decoding skills, don’t really cultivate an interest in different types of reading materials, and have a negative relationship with reading. Other children adore reading. They read as a matter of habit, read as a family, and love reading for entertainment and learning.
How do we turn your child into a child that LOVES to read? Here are some ideas to help 1) increase their decoding skills even at the toddler age and 2) generate a passion for reading for entertainment
Use sensory strategies to develop a letter awareness, and a phonological awareness with your young child. Use foam letters in the bathtub, model for them tracing letters in sand, rice and shaving cream
Play phonological awareness games. Teach your older child to rhyme, segment different words and blend simple words using games like zingo, card games, and hangman
Comic books and graphic novels captivate reluctant readers
Magazines for kids like Ranger Rick and Highlights magazine are available for different ages and generate interest with exciting articles and projects
Going to the library- take your children to the library and allow them to pick their own books. Your child can talk to the children’s librarian to talk about their interests and they can suggest exciting new books. Library programming often encourages reading and literacy as well
Have a big, forward facing bookshelf full of fun reading materials consistently available in your child’s room.
Monkey see, monkey do! Make sure you have your books and magazines out in the home and that your children see you reading on a regular basis.
Hope these tips help! I’m always around if you need more advice or a personalized consultation on your child’s learning needs.
-Brittany
