There is nothing more foundational to a good education than reading. What many parents don’t realize however is just how responsible they are for creating good reading habits in their children. Let’s face it, in school, many social groups are just not going to discuss how great it is to read. It can be uncool to be well read in school but if you take the bull by the horns early on and promote good reading habits, you child stands a much better chance of developing great reading habits on their own.
One easy step to get your child on the path to reading is of course to read with your child. Spending time with your kids is essential but making that time productive is just as important. You are your child’s natural role model so what you promote as good behavior is what they will do as well. Turn off the TV at night and find a book series that interests your child. The “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series for example spans five books at the time of this article. This series has been responsible for reviving a reading interest in many children.
Another key to getting your child to read is to hav them see you reading. Indeed, when a child knows that reading is important to you, it stands a much better chance of being importnat to them as well. As an example, you can tell your kids to eat vegetables and drink water but if you have a soda open to go with fried chicken and french fries, odds are pretty good that your child is going to do as you do and not as you say.
Finally, actively discuss the books your child reads with him or her and take an interest in what it is they read. This is a very healthy form of interaction with your child that is sure to make them feel good as well as yourself. Take them to the bookstore and make it fun to choose a book.