We set up Maya’s reading corner several months ago and she loves it!
Here are 10 tips on making your child a reading success:
•Ease of access – If your child does not see books, they will likely not care to read. No need to break the bank in buying books. There are many inexpensive books at second hand stores, yard sales and books to borrow for free at your local library. Once the books are placed at height level or in reach of children, they are more inclined towards picking them up.
•Monkey see monkey do – If you read regularly, your child will take interest as well!
•Read together – Start with your infant and continue throughout childhood. Reading together helps with brain development and is a perfect way to bond and increase vocabulary.
•Let your child decide – Being about to select which books to buy, borrow or read will give your child some autonomy and they will be more interested
•Teacher teacher! – Encourage older kids to read to younger siblings. This will keep everyone motivated. Who doesn’t want to follow their elder sibling’s footsteps?
•Incentivize – For children age 3 and up, a chart with stickers is a great way to track how many books he or she has read. One sticker for every book read. Once the child reaches 10 stickers, they can pick a prize or experience. The options are endless!
•Reading corner – Any cozy place can be turned into a reading corner. Your child can participate by helping decorate the area.
•Don’t limit reading to books only – Encourage children to read billboards, traffic signs, headlines, cereal boxes and whatever else comes their way.
•Establish a reading time – While Maya gets to read at preschool and with her nanny, my personal time to read with her is usually right before bed.
•Talk about it – discuss the story, the characters and the experience with your child. This helps teach them how to reflect and think in depth.
We made these bookshelves out of photo ledges from Ikea.
