What to do with Reluctant Readers

• read multiple books on the same topic (try their favorite topic!)  Studies show that reading multiple books on the same topic can actually help your child improve their reading comprehension skills more than reading multiple books on various topics.   Discuss the books with your child once you’re done reading. Ask your child to compare and contrast the books to check their comprehension and keep them engaged.

• model reading Children tend to copy the behavior around them, so it's important to mimic the actions you want to see.  If your child doesn't see you or anybody else enjoying a good book now and then, chances are they will struggle to see the value in doing it for themselves. 

• make reading fun  Try not to push your child to read, instead, try to encourage them to see reading as something to do for leisure. Read aloud with them and make it fun and interesting. Be patient if they're struggling with a word and avoid pushing them to finish a book any faster than what they're comfortable with.

• book clubs or book sharing  Host a book swap at your house and invite all of your child's friends to bring a book to share. Reading can be a shared experience by taking turns reading aloud and discussing the plot and characters.

• read together  If your child isn't likely to sit and read on their own, why not try taking turns reading to each other? This will make for a more interactive activity for the both of you. Get your child even more involved by asking them about what is happening in the story or what they think about a certain character. 

• try a new series  Perhaps the cliff hanger at the end of one story might compel them to read the next and then before you know it they've read the whole series! 

• schedule reading into your family time  Set aside a specific time for reading each day. It could be special bedtime reading, reading time after homework, or right after school pick‑up. Once you get into a routine your children will come to expect that they have a time set aside for reading, making it easier to get into the groove. 

*many ideas taken from Readingeggs.com

As always, I’m available by email at erin.verhagen@mgschools.net if you have any questions or comments.