Practical Ways to Help Children Fall in Love with Reading đź“š
Do you have a reluctant reader in your home?
As an avid reader for as long as I can remember, I’ve never understood why some people don’t like to read much.
I know God creates each of us differently, with unique talents and interests. But when it comes to our kids, helping them fall in love with reading will help them find greater confidence and success in their school years and in future work years.
Reading is also linked to some amazing benefits that promote overall well being.
The Benefits of Reading:
Improves brain health
Better memory
Increases vocabulary
Enhances creativity
Expands knowledge
Improves communication skills
Better sleep
Boosts empathy
Increases life expectancy!
So, if you have a reluctant reader at home, I encourage you to not give up! Here’s how to help your children enjoy reading more:
Begin early. It’s never too early to read to and with your children. Start when they are babies and make it a habit through their school years. And remember: It’s also never too late to start.
Lead by example. Let your children see you read (and not just on social media ;-). Talk to them about the books you’re reading, when appropriate.
Give them a choice. Let them choose topics they’re interested in and help them pick books suitable to their reading level. If it’s too easy, they’ll become bored. If it’s too difficult, it could cause frustration. Help your child find that “just right” fit.
Regularly visit libraries and bookstores. Make the visit fun! If they’re not a big fan at first, pair it with an activity they really enjoy, or end the outing with ice cream (that can’t hurt and can only help ;-).
Meet your child’s individual needs. If your child prefers moving to reading, check out this article to help make literacy fun with outdoor activities: outdoor-games. If your child has a short attention span for reading opt in for short books like joke books, comic books and colorful picture books. If your child is an auditory learner, regularly listen to audiobooks together, and fill the home library with wholesome options for them to listen on their own.
One last thing to keep in mind for all you Christian parents. It’s important to read often with your young children, you’ll help them build skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. But also, be sure to read books that grow their understanding of God and His Word, you’ll invest in their eternity.
There are many benefits to reading Christian picture books with your kids. They are a powerful discipleship tool for children:
Teaches biblical truths in a creative way
Relates the Bible to everyday life
Makes learning about the Bible a normal part of life
Colorful illustrations draws readers into the story
Instills Christian values in a non-preachy way
So if you’re looking for a series to add to your library, check out my children’s picture book series Questions for Kids. This series is meant to grow with young readers spiritually and in their reading skills. Kids will learn important biblical truths, right alongside important life lessons and principles, that will grow their faith and character.
When it comes to your young reader, I want to encourage you, parents and grandparents, don’t give up! Some kids just take a little bit longer to warm up to reading. Keep making it a priority in your home, and you never know, your reluctant reader just might grow up to be a big fan and a lifelong reader
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For more information about Karen, visit her website or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Do you know some special young readers? Check out the first two of seven books in the Questions for Kids picture book series on AMAZON. The third book is now in contract with Ambassador International and coming soon!
