By: SUZY TURNER
READING IS a fundamental part of society and encouraging children to do it as young as possible is highly recommended. Even when babies cannot understand what is being said, they will simply enjoy hearing their parent’s voice.
Reading aloud is the best way to prepare children to learn how to read and to keep them reading as they grow up. It also helps youngsters to develop the language skills they will need when they start school. Not only is it a good educational tool, the process of reading aloud with your child helps to strengthen the bond that exists between you.
Appreciation
Sitting together while you read aloud is a great time to cuddle while you share adventures, laugh at funny characters, make silly noises, root for heroes and boo villains. This kind of activity will undoubtedly give your child a lifelong appreciation for reading. It is also the perfect opportunity for adults to re-discover some long lost stories that have been forgotten over the years. Remember such
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classics as Enid Blyton’s The Famous Five, for instance?
There is nothing more wonderful than laughter, especially a child’s, so look out for books you can read aloud that will lead to the giggles – from you both! Roald Dahl is the author of some real whoppers like BFG, James and the Giant Peach and The Twits, all of which are perfect for a good chuckle.
As your child grows up, continue to encourage him to read alone (or with you until he feels confident enough to read quietly by himself). Choose books that are about subjects that are of interest to them. For example, if he has shown interest in pirates, try to find books to fit that particular subject – Treasure Island is a well known classic.
If they are a little unsure about actually picking up a book themselves, leave a selection of interesting and fun-looking reading material around the house, even magazines are a good start. Let your children see you reading for pleasure in your spare time; this will actively encourage them to do the same. Make a point of putting aside time every single day in order to read together.
Audience
Another great way for kids to enjoy reading is for their older siblings to read to them aloud. Older children usually love being the centre of attention and enjoy showing their skills to an admiring audience!
Try limiting television so that youngsters have more time to devote to other activities like reading, but avoid using the TV as a treat for reading or as a punishment for not reading – getting involved in a good book should be something to enjoy. However, if you do need incentives to get your children reading more, you could promise to take them to see a film that is based on a book they are reading. Never nag your child to read a book, the moment they feel they are being forced to do something, they won’t want to do it.
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