How to Get a Kid Interested in Reading

It is extremely important for kids to learn to enjoy reading if they are to succeed in the majority of their classes. Even in math, a certain amount of reading is necessary and required. Kids who enjoy reading will do it more often. They will be more inclined to do the schoolwork that requires reading and will enjoy it more. Once they enjoy reading, a whole new world of entertainment and learning will be open to them.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Read to children when they are young. This will introduce them to the entertaining world inside books. When kids are read to regularly, they will develop an interest in books that often carries into later years.

2. Allow the child to see you reading. If the only reading done in the home is a bedtime story, it may not reinforce the idea that reading is for everyone and a source of comfort and entertainment. Even if you don't read regularly, look at a book occasionally in your free time to show the child that you enjoy it.

3. Keep plenty of books in the house. Books can be expensive, and shiny new hardbacks may not be in the budget, but there are plenty of other ways to get children's books. Shop in thrift stores, at yard sales and at the local Friends of the Library store to get books that will interest your child. Keep books of different skill levels around the house to allow the child to choose challenging books if he or she wants them. Make sure to diversify the genres as well. With plenty of enticing books lying around, your child will see something they want to read and will enjoy doing so.

4. Avoid reading rules. Rely on your example and the diversity of books in the home to entice your child to read. If you create a hard and fast rule, such as reading for 30 minutes a day, your child may see it as a chore rather than something that they are choosing to do out of enjoyment.