Do you have a child who would much rather do chores than read? You are not alone. Many children find reading a burden, however there is still hope to get your child excited about the idea of books.
The first-step in transforming their idea about reading being unpleasant, is to show your child that knowledge is power and that there is an abundance of books on topics they love. Find books related to whatever it is they would rather spend their time doing. Demonstrate the adventure of the characters, find experiments, or explore facts about the animals they like.
Series such as that of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or the Babysitters Club, the opportunities spread for generations. Find one that interests them, and build on the excitement of consequently continuing through the books.
Star Wars, Wizard of Oz, James and the Giant Peach, Matilda, Peter Pan… the list of feature films related to books for kids is extensive. After your child has complete the books, make a special popcorn and movie night to celebrate them finishing the book. Build up enthusiasm prior to watching the film with a noteworthy calendar marker, and consider inviting some friends over for the occasion.
If your child finds motivation through reward, consider granting them a reward for meeting their reading goals.
Atmosphere can make a dramatic difference in attitude. Create a special area that your child can read in. A reading nook, fort, or a transformed closet with ample reading light and a bean bag could make a world of difference in the time they want to spend reading. The key is not to over-stimulate them, but to peak their interest. Make the atmosphere feel exciting, but calm, and the activity will naturally feel more entertaining.
Every child is different, so it’s all about finding the right motivation. The opportunities to appreciate reading are endless and the love of learning is invaluable.