Advice for new and reluctant readers
Every child is different and that must be recognized. Here are some strategies for raising happy and healthy readers.
Dear Friends,
Parents often wonder how they can get their children to read without complaining. I think the first step is to provide the child options. When we provide our children with a variety of reading materials, it makes it easier for them to find something that resonates.
On the other hand, sometimes it’s necessary to include the option to do another activity instead of reading. In my experience, some children only like to read when they don’t feel like they must read. After all, when we put pressure on someone to do something, it takes away from the joy.
If we want to have lifelong joyful readers, then we have to replace the need to control or push our children with patience and creativity.
For example, I have found that some children don’t like to read books, but they like to read other things. I had a student where we would read age-appropriate newspaper articles together, and that helped keep him interested until I discovered that he only enjoyed reading science books.
In my personal life, my youngest son did not like to read books, but he liked to read instruction manuals. Eventually he started to like books, but it took time. I just kept offering them to him with no pressure.
On the other hand, my other son has always loved books and has been reading since he was two and a half. Every child is different.
What is your child interested in? Can you find books that match those interests?
There are also magazines for children. I prefer magazines with no advertising so Cricket Media provides a selection of children’s magazines that do not have any advertisements. Children like to get their own mail so that could be an option as well.
Overall, in my opinion it’s best to just relax and have confidence that with your loving support, your child will acquire the skills that he or she needs.
Sincerely,
Jennifer
Become a Confident Reader!
I offer online reading and writing tutoring. My teaching style is compassionate and motivational. I also believe that learning should be fun. Bringing out the best in a student requires patience, encouragement, and building rapport. Find out more about my services.
Children’s Book Reviews
Mommy, What is Confidence by Shal Chirkut – This is a very sweet and innocent book that highlights the different ways that one can show confidence. Read full review
When Harley Has Anxiety by Regine Galanti, PhD -This is a book that truly promotes healing and personal responsibility. I like how the author encourages the reader to examine their behavior and what they can do it change it. Read full review
What’s Today For? by Jessy Humann -This is sweet and sentimental tale. It presents a walk through various days with a perspective of being positive or reflective or full of gratitude. Read full review
The intent of this newsletter is to offer suggestions to help children become confident readers and confident human beings. Please follow your inner guidance by taking what resonates and discarding the rest.
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