Reading, writing, and literature are essential skills every child should learn. It’s no wonder many parents want to ensure their kids become avid readers, writers, and students of literature. While it’s true that a teacher’s guidance is instrumental in teaching these skills, parents can also support learning at home in special ways.
Here are seven creative and clever ideas to help you get your child interested in reading, writing, and literature. These strategies can help set your child up for success in school, as well as help to develop critical thinking skills that will last a lifetime!
1. Integrate Storytelling into Everyday Life
Children love stories, so one way to get your child interested in reading, writing, and literature is to tell stories in the most natural way possible. Integrate storytelling into everyday life by recounting experiences and adventures as you walk to school, do homework, or take a trip. This trick educates your child and gives them tools to tell stories of their own.
You can also read stories together, such as folktales, fables, and myths from around the world. Discuss the characters, ask questions about the plot, and even ask your children to retell the story in their own words. Doing this will help pique your child’s interest in both reading and writing – and many classics from around the world are free to access online!
2. Make Books Visible Everywhere
Making books and other reading materials visible in your home will help to get your child interested in reading. This can include setting up a bookshelf in your child’s bedroom or bathroom, letting them choose new books during trips to the bookstore, and having them participate in the process of selecting books to read. You can also alternate between reading to and with your child, making sure to pick different genres and formats every week.
To make it even more special, declare a family reading night, set aside a space for reading, and encourage other siblings to join your child in reading session. This is sure to be a memorable experience for everyone!
3. Assign Reading Tasks and Writing Projects
One of the best ways to get your child interested in reading and writing is to encourage them to read and write often. Assigning them reading tasks and writing projects is a great way to do this. These can be as simple as reading a certain number of chapters every week, reading a newspaper article together, or writing an essay every month. Making these tasks fun, age appropriate, and immersive will ensure your child develops a genuine passion for reading and writing.
Many children become uninterested and unmotivated if reading is viewed simply as homework, so one of the best advantages of assigning reading tasks and writing projects is the ability to show your child how much fun reading can actually be!
4. Foster a Love of Reading Through Books
Fostering a love of reading in your child can be done through books that genuinely interest them. For example, if your child loves animals, introduce them to books about wildlife; or if your child likes superheroes, buy them graphic novels and comic books. By providing your child with books that match their interests, they’re more likely to stick with the reading.
You can also try collecting a series of books and then allowing your child to keep the collection after it has been read. This will give them a feeling of accomplishment and offer them the opportunity to revisit their favorite books whenever they want.
5. Introduce Literature Through Digital Media
Due to the popularity of digital media, more children are exposed to literature in the form of educational games, interactive stories, and educational videos. Taking advantage of new technology and integrating it with traditional reading and writing can help your child to become more engaged in the written word. There are many online platforms that offer educational materials for children of different ages, so have a look and make sure your child is familiar with these resources.
6. Record and Share
Recording and sharing your child’s writing and reading sessions will make them excited about learning. Have them read passages aloud and record it on your phone, or help them make a short video talking about a book they have recently read. This will let your child show off their skills, have a bit of fun at the same time, and become more motivated to continue reading and writing.
7. Celebrate Success and Have Fun With It!
Lastly, make sure you celebrate your child’s literary successes. Have them read pieces they’ve written in front of family and friends and build upon their talents. Throwing a literature-themed party, going to the library on special occasions, or doing some arts-and-crafts projects related to books are all great ways to motivate your child to learn even more.
Reading, writing, and literature can often be seen as dry and boring topics. But by taking a creative approach and implementing these seven tips, you’ll soon see that these valuable skills can be quite fun and engaging for your child!
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