How to Get Boys to Enjoy Reading

It is a shame that many boys who enjoyed reading as young children, stop enjoying reading as they get older. Although this is common, there are a few easy ways to encourage boys to again enjoy reading and become life long readers. Read on to learn how to get boys to enjoy reading.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Point out both men and women in the boy's life who read. Note that they read different types of material, at different times and often for different reasons.
2. Credit, in a positive way, any reading that boys do to encourage the behavior to repeat itself. Even if boys tend to not read fiction novels, they will often read articles from magazines or newspapers.
3. Vary the books and magazines that are made available to your son. Research has shown that boys often show more interest in nonfiction books, graphic novels and magazines than in fiction.
4. Introduce science fiction and fantasy to boys. Although this will not interest all boys, for those who do become interested, there will be many choices for future reading.
5. Discuss the availability of books, magazines and newspapers for boys, as well as different options for reading assignments with parents, teachers and librarians.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider starting a boys' book club for boys of the same age and similar interest to discuss books.
• Do not make condescending comments such as, "At least you are reading." A better way to encourage the reading is to ask questions.