Hearing the
words, “I hate to read!” can be a
parental nightmare, conjuring up images of below basic standardized test
scores, remedial classes, or worse – dropping out of school and not going to
college. Yet, it is a universal reality
that many parents have reluctant reading spawn – even those parents who firmly
classify themselves as voracious readers.
When I meet with parents at conferences, the following scenario is not at
all uncommon:
“What can we do about Tommy? My husband loves to read. I love to read. Tommy’s older sister loves to read. Tommy’s younger brother loves to read. The dog loves to read. But Tommy hates to read! I don’t understand it. Help us – Pleeeeease!”
Seeing the panic in their eyes,
I tell the parents the first step is to determine if their child is in fact a
reluctant reader (R.R.) or just a passionless one. To determine where the child is on the
Reluctant Reader Richter scale, I ask three questions:
1 - Does
your child avoid reading whenever possible?
2 - Does
your child complain when doing it?
3 - Does
your child have little to no retention or comprehension when they are
finished?
If the
answer is yes to all three questions, I tell them it is safe to assume that
their child is in fact allergic to books.
And that’s when I smile and say, “Let’s give them an antihistamine they’re
going to love.”
RR Strategy#1 -
Ownership
Parents
should allow children to choose their own books. If children “see” themselves in what they
read, they will naturally become more interested in reading. Guide your child to books classified as Hi/Lo
(High interest / Low Level). These books
have major RR appeal: humor, a face paced plot, kid relevance, and visual
appeal. I also encourage parents to give
their child a monthly or weekly book allowance so they can start their own
personal library. Make their bedroom a
literary lair by preparing a reading corner with comfy pillows and beanbags. Decorate the walls with book cover posters or
have your child design their own.
RR Strategy #2 - Keep
It Fun!
Eventually
kids will read independently, but before they to, they need to have a series of
positive experiences. Make reading
relaxing and low key. Allow them to read
graphic novels, joke books, and choose-your-own adventure books. Encourage them to read aloud funny or
interesting parts of the book. Utilize
technology and download audio or e-books.
Dispel any Rigid Reading Rules your child has picked up in the
past. For example, it’s okay not to finish a book. I even tell my students I have my own page 7
rule. If a book doesn’t grab me by page
7, I put it down and choose something else.
A reluctant reader might have a page 1 or 2 rule, and that’s okay. On the flip side, it’s okay to reread a
favorite book, as this builds fluency and confidence through repetition. Be patient with your child and don’t EVER use
reading as a form of punishment.
Remember, positive associations are essential.
RR Strategy #3 – Be a
Buddy
Finally, be
your child’s reading buddy. Schedule regular library or local bookstore
visits. Assist with comprehension in a
disarming way by asking open-ended questions:
·
Why do you think the character did __________________?
·
What would you change the title to?
·
Who would you want as a best friend?
·
What was your favorite part?
When your child has a book report at school, work with the
teacher to ensure a positive experience.
Ask if they can choose their own book and if extra time is needed,
request an extension. Most teachers
understand the plight of the reluctant reader and want to be a part of the
solution.
A love of
reading is a lifelong gift parents can give their children. Like any pursuit, some children are more
receptive than others. Nevertheless, by
giving your child ownership, making reading, fun, and being a partner in
child’s journey as a reader, your reluctant reader will turn voracious in no
time.
I think "Keep it fun" is the best way to guide kids love reading.
ReplyDeleteflip book creator
Absolutely! Thanks, Keya!!
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