Motivating a Reluctant Reader

by Donna Wine

How can you motivate a child to read - especially if he or she isn't excited about books? In an excellent article based on the advice gleaned from parents and teachers, Jessica Snyder from Reading Rockets (2002) at www.readingrockets.org compiled the following excellent suggestions.

1. Read together. Snuggle under the covers, share a book and a peanut butter sandwich, follow along with a book on tape but read TOGETHER.

2. Find reading opportunities in places other than books. Video games, a Kindle or Nook, magazines, and comic books all provide reading practice. Other practical ways to sneak reading under your child's radar include playing board games that involve written directions, writing to a pen pal, turning on the closed captioning on your TV, leaving reminder notes for him to discover, or having him help with the grocery list.

3. Make reading enjoyable. As you read to your children, keep them involved by asking questions or letting them fill in the blanks. Create related activities by acting out the stories or making recipes from the story time period.

4. Use some sort of visual record of achievement. A chart or graph that marks the number of books read will give your child a sense of achievement. Or create a BINGO card or passport where each space can be filled in by reading. When your child reaches his goal, reward him with something to celebrate. It doesn't have to be elaborate or expensive. Just recognize the achievement.

5. Allow your child to choose books he likes. Make sure there are a variety of books, magazines and other materials available to choose from at home, school, the library or bookstore. While it's fine to make suggestions, don't force your ideas upon your child if you want him to be enthusiastic about reading.

6. Continue to talk about books even after reading is finished. Compare other books to your child's most recently finished one. Perhaps write a letter to a favorite author, visit his web site, or even join a discussion group or book club.

7. Carve out time for reading. Regardless of how motivated your child is, reading won't happen if there is no time for it. Set aside specific times rather than trying to squeeze it in haphazardly. You'll be sending the message that reading is important and is something your child will enjoy.