Unlocking the Joy of Reading
As a mum and an educational expert, I've witnessed first-hand how some children can be hesitant to dive into the world of reading. At times, it's about confidence; they might feel they aren't reading as well as their peers. For others, underlying learning difficulties could make the journey more challenging, and it's crucial for us to identify these so we can offer the right support. Perhaps they need glasses! If you notice your child squinting, rubbing their eyes too frequently, or holding devices too close, it might be time for an eye test. Or maybe, they simply need a quieter reading corner.
I've observed that when we, as parents, don't prioritise reading, our children might not see its value. Plus, with so many books out there, they might not know where to start or feel overwhelmed. These are all natural parts of growing up. However, recognising these minor obstacles and understanding the reasons behind a child's reluctance can make all the difference in guiding them towards a love for reading. Here are some tips to help!
Beyond Books: Reading isn't limited to just books. Junior magazines, blogs, comics, and audiobooks are all excellent to engage children too. It is important to tap into what genuinely excites them. A study from the University of Manchester highlighted that children are more likely to develop a love for reading when they can identify with the characters on the book. A little trip to the bookshop or library will give them the freedom to pick up books that catch their eye, plus choosing their own books can make them feel empowered and give them a nice sense of agency.
Read Together: One of the most nurturing ways to encourage a reluctant reader is to make reading a shared experience. Set aside a special time each day, bedtime or after dinner, where you both can cuddle up with a book. Let your child choose the story, even if you’ve read it a hundred times. As you read aloud make sure your voice is playful and reflects excitement or mystery or humour, children love this! If children associate reading with warmth, closeness or calmness, they’ll feel more drawn to books and as they get more used to it they’ll start doing it more independently too.
Conversation Prompts: A nice way to get into the stories and characters is to ask open-ended questions (which will also help develop their comprehension skills!) and it’s a great way to spark conversation. These are some examples, remember to keep it fun:
“If you could jump into this book right now, where would you want to go first?"
“If you could ask (one of the characters) one question, what would it be?"
"How do you think the character felt when...?"
"What would you do if you woke up as (one of the characters)…?"
"What do you think will happen next?"
"Why do you think the character did...?"
Engage with your Child’s Teacher and Seek Advice: Your child's teacher can provide insights into any specific challenges they might be facing and how to best support these at home. In some cases, a child's aversion to reading might be due to underlying issues like dyslexia or other learning disabilities. Your child’s teacher or SENDCO will be able to signpost you to the right specialist.
Remember, it’s about the joy of reading!
