Children's Day 2024: How to make reading a daily habit for your kids

Reading habits in children: Allow children to select their own books rather than picking out something for them they will never open. This fosters independence and encourages them to read what genuinely interests them (Image: Pexels)

If you want your child to grow up with a love of books, there are some effective ways you can encourage them every day. Setting aside a fixed time for reading, letting them choose their own books and offering a variety of books for their varied interests will let them know that reading is valued in your family.

Kids learn by watching, so make sure they see you reading, too, whether it is a newspaper, magazine or a novel. Encouraging them to think about and discuss what they’re reading will also allow them to be creative and think critically.

Here are some effective ways that you can promote reading to your child.

Make reading a daily habit

Set aside a fixed time each day for reading, whether it’s before bed, after school, or during a quiet time in the afternoon. Even 15–20 minutes a day can build a lasting habit. Soon, your child will start looking forward to this time as an enjoyable part of their day.

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Create a reading-friendly environment

Make reading exciting and attractive for your kids. Create a comfortable, well-lit reading nook where they can easily access books. Keep bookshelves or baskets filled with age-appropriate books in accessible areas, so they can grab a book whenever they’re in the mood. You could also personalise the space, adding their favourite colours or cushions to make reading feel special.

Offer a variety of books

Offer your kids a diverse range of books to go with their diverse interests. Offering them a range of fiction, non-fiction, graphic novels, picture books, magazines, and even age-appropriate poetry will pique their interest and help them find something that excites them.

Be a reading role model

Children learn a lot by observing the adults in their lives. If your child never sees you reading, it is unlikely they will be interested either. Let your child see you reading anything, whether it’s a book, newspaper, or magazine. Talk to your child about what you’re reading, explain it them in terms they can understand. Showing genuine enthusiasm for books and reading will make them more likely to view it positively.

Visit the library regularly

Regular trips to the library can make reading an adventure. Allow your child to choose their own books and give them the freedom to explore the different sections. Find out about storytelling sessions at bookstores that will make reading fun and social.

Encourage storytelling and discussions

When your kids do start reading or listening to you read, ask them to recount their favourite parts of the story, or make up new endings. This will make it more engaging for them and allow them to be creative. Discuss characters, settings, or what they learned from the book. This helps children think critically about the story and see reading as an interactive experience.

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Use audiobooks as an alternative

For children who may struggle with reading or prefer listening, audiobooks can be a wonderful introduction to stories. Audiobooks can improve listening skills, expand vocabulary, and develop a love for stories. Listening to audiobooks during car rides or quiet time can be an enjoyable experience for children.

Praise progress and celebrate milestones

Celebrate each reading milestone, whether it’s finishing a book, learning new words, or exploring a new genre. Acknowledge their achievements with praise, and consider rewards like bookmarks, book-themed stickers, or even a trip to pick out a new book. Positive reinforcement can make children feel accomplished and eager to continue reading.

Incorporate reading into daily activities

Encourage reading as part of everyday life. Ask children to read recipes while helping in the kitchen, read instructions for a game, or look at signs and labels when out and about. Making reading relevant to their daily experiences shows that it’s useful, practical, and fun.

Let them choose their books

Allow children to select their own books rather than picking out something for them they will never open. This fosters independence and encourages them to read what genuinely interests them. Take them to bookstores and let them pick whatever catches their eye. When children decide what they want to read, they are more likely to read it.

Promoting a love for reading in children takes time, patience, and creativity. By making reading an enjoyable, everyday activity and providing them with encouragement and variety, you’re setting them up for a lifetime of learning and curiosity.