Tips for Family Reading
1. Daily Reading Time
One of the best ways to incorporate reading into your family's daily routine is by gradually including it in your schedule. It could be as simple as dedicating twenty minutes after dinner or reading together at the breakfast table, after school, or in a cozy corner of the house. These short yet regular sessions are an excellent way to develop reading habits.
2. What to Read
No matter the age of your children, sharing a good book with loved ones can make it extra special. You can start a reading-time tradition with your family by revisiting one of your childhood classics or picking out an exciting new release.
It's a good idea to read both fiction and nonfiction books. What subject do your children enjoy at school? What characters do they watch on TV? You can also check out comics, cookbooks, magazines, newspapers, and graphic novels.
Choosing books that align with your child's interests is a great way to ensure a successful family reading time. The more you read together, the more you will understand the type of books you all enjoy reading.
3. Make Storytime Interactive
Reading together with your child can be made more interactive in various ways. You can take turns reading each page aloud or assign a character to each family member. You could also try using silly voices or making the characters' noises to engage children.
By talking about the pictures on the page during storytime, you can help your child's brain grow. Discussing the picture helps very young children develop joint attention.
Talking about the story is another way to connect with your child, discuss feelings, and enhance reading comprehension skills. You can ask your child what they think of the story or why a character made a particular decision.
4. Read Anywhere and Anytime
Finding the perfect time and place to read together as a family is not always easy.
Bedtime may not be the most convenient option, so try to find a time that suits your family. If you're finding it difficult to make time for reading together at home due to busy schedules, you can consider turning your daily commute into a reading opportunity or you can try some creative ideas, such as:
- Choose a book with a movie adaptation you can watch together as a family.
- Visit the library to find new books.
- Enjoy the outdoors and a great book
- Dress up as a character from the book while reading.
- If your child loves animals, read books on the subject and then visit the zoo.
- Involve other family members in your family reading by having your child share a book with them via Facetime.
5. Lead by Example
Did you know that adults reading from books, magazines, or newspapers can positively impact children? Babies and young children observing their family members reading are likelier to become readers.
When you're out and about and need to wait for something, try bringing a book with you instead of pulling out your phone.
Children are naturally curious and eager to learn, so sharing your stories about the joys and benefits of reading can spark their interest and encourage them to explore books independently.