A love of reading opens up a world of opportunities for children. Reading provides children with new perspectives, information, and a deeper understanding of the world. However, not all children are born with a natural affinity for reading. It’s okay if your child isn’t an avid reader. You can use a variety of strategies for engaging reluctant readers.
It can be disheartening for parents to see their kids shut down regarding reading. Some children struggle with decoding or comprehension, and others just don’t enjoy reading. Finding ways to engage them can be challenging. Some strategies can help even reluctant readers discover a love of reading. Here are eight helpful tips for engaging reluctant readers at your home.
1. Make Reading Fun
Make reading fun and kids will be more inclined to read. Many kids tend to believe that reading is boring. Here are some ways to liven up your reading time. Use different voices, sounds, and even movements.
You can also play reading games. Set a goal for your child to read how many pages in a certain period. While reading, you might also ask your child to find all the animals mentioned in the story.
2. Let Kids Pick Out Their Reading Material
Allowing kids to choose their books and other reading materials can help foster their interests and make reading more enjoyable. Let children choose their favorite books more often. Also, you might give them a choice of a few different books.
It’s helpful to take kids to a library or bookstore and let them pick out a book they’re interested in. Children’s ability to choose their reading materials can even improve their reading skills. Consider giving them the option of selecting their favorite book from a few options.
3. Read Aloud To Your Child
You can also engage reluctant readers by reading to them. Keeping kids’ attention and understanding the content is key. As you read, children can also hear how each word sounds, thus helping them decode words more easily.
4. Choose Shorter Texts
If children have trouble reading longer text, shorten it instead. You can even include a few sentences from a longer text. The goal is to engage kids in reading, regardless of the length of the text.
5. Encourage Your Child To Read Aloud
Another way to engage reluctant readers is to have them read aloud. It can help kids with their fluency and pronunciation and also allows parents to understand what their children are reading.
6. Let Children Take Their Time
Reading at the speed at which children are comfortable should not be rushed. Their comprehension skills will also improve when they are allowed to take their time. Allow them to read at their own pace. Kids can feel like reading is a chore if we rush them.
7. Help Your Child Develop A Love For Books
Developing a love of reading is one of the best ways to help reluctant readers become more interested in reading. Visit a library, bookstore, and other places that expose them to new and exciting books.
Let your child see you reading for pleasure, and talk about the books you’re reading. Make reading and books enjoyable for your child.
8. Reward Your Child’s Effort
When it comes to engaging reluctant readers, giving them praise and recognition can make all the difference. Create a sticker chart or offer small rewards each time your child completes a chapter or book. This can motivate children to read more.
Patience and effort are your best tools for teaching reluctant readers. Give them choices and start small. Keep it fun. Engaging your child in reading will lead to a lifelong love of reading.
At Carepointe Academy, we implement a proven curriculum with students that focuses on active learning. Our responsive and loving teachers provide a nurturing environment for all children. We encourage kids to scaffold their thoughts and ideas as they develop life-long problem-solving skills. Contact us for more information!
