There is no doubt that reading has many benefits. Boosting intelligence, lowering stress, increasing one’s vocabulary, making us better writers are just a few of them. However, finding time to read can be a challenge in a family with children; but not reading at all should not be an option. In this post, I am sharing 5 reading tips for families with children.
Reading does not have to be a solitary activity. Most importantly, reading should not be a boring activity. So why don’t you try the following tips?
1. Read at bedtime
Make it a routine to read with/to your children before they go to bed. It is never too early to start. In fact, research shows that the earlier we start reading to our children the sooner they develop vocabulary and grammar skills. So, incorporate reading in your children’s bedtime routine.
For older children who can read, make this an opportunity for them to read to you. They get to pick the story and also read to mom or dad. I think they will enjoy that.
2. Have a family reading time
Once a week for example, have a family time with books. This can consist in half an hour or an hour, depending on everyone’s attention span. During this time, everyone gets to read a book of their choice. At the end of the allotted time, regroup as a family to share what you’ve learned. Make it fun with something to look forward to (e.g., movie, snacks, etc.).
Before you know it, this will turn into an activity your children look forward to.
3. As parents, let’s make sure our children see us reading
Children are great imitators, so give them something great to imitate. The more your children see you read, the easier it will be for you to instill the habit in them. The opposite is also true. So let them see you reading.
4. Get a membership at your local library
Make your local library a place your family visits as often as possible (when libraries are safe to open again). Children can select books they want to read and make sure to return them on time to avoid late fees.
Children like feeling empowered. So this will be a great opportunity for them to feel in charge. It will also teach them responsibility.
5. Most importantly have fun
In most cases, children will be open to participating in any learning opportunity that involves fun. So, do challenges – For example, the number of books each person can get through in a month. Whoever gets the highest number wins. For babies and preschoolers, this can be the number of books you read to them. Everything counts. Then the winner gets a gift.
In addition to helping your family bond, exposing children to books at an early age is a great way to encourage them to be life-long readers.
What other tips do you have for families with children related to reading? Share in the comments below.
Until next time…
Huguette
Le numéro 3 est ce que je dois faire. Entre le travail, les livres audios, les enfants me voient souvent devant un écran plutôt que tenant un livre.
Aussi, tout à fait de ton avis que l’heure du dodo est idéale pour la lecture. Tout est calme dans la maison.
Dernier point, lire ensemble, je veux instaurer cela. Je vais essayer.
Ce n’est pas facile, mais tu y arriveras ! 🙂 Merci !