Summertime means relaxation and time spent with family. But what happens when it’s time to head back to school? Many children regress in their reading ability over the summer. Let us help you explore three sure ways to get your child to dive deep into the books this summer.
1. Be a model!
Do you remember when your child was a toddler and copied virtually everything you did? The concept remains the same, even as your child gets older. You are you child’s best role model. Therefore, if you find time every week to stop what you are doing and read a book, your child will find it more important. Set some time aside to read together or at the same time from across the room. Set a timer to give your child a que when about 20 minutes is up. Be sure to use a reading log to record how many pages were read each day.
2. Find their interest
Who wants to explore a book that puts them to sleep the second they pick it up? Children are motivated by topics they are interested in. Get to know your reader by asking them questions about what they are interested in.
3. Special Nook
Finding a fun and comfortable place to read can be a huge motivator. Pile some pillows up in a corner of the living room or allow your child to make a fort out of sheets and other household items. Make some special rules for that space that you normally wouldn’t allow to help make it special. Allow the dog to sit with them while they read or let them eat a snack there to help motivate them.
4. Rewards
Children with disabilities can be especially hard to motivate but you as their parent know them the best. Use techniques that will motivate them and keep them interested. For example, some kids have a favorite toy, snack, or would like to receive some sort of privilege- tap into what rewards them and use reading as the task that should be done before the reward. Often, a reading chart that includes a new sticker everyday they read can be a great visual for children. Once they have gained 5 stickers, they receive their favorite reward. Rewards might include time on their tablet or video game, helping cook a favorite treat, a trip to the pool or beach, having a friend over to play, or simply staying up a little bit past their bedtime.
Picking up a good book should be a positive experience for children and being forced to do so may turn them away from it. Try a few of these techniques and see how excited your child is to read.
Looking for a list of great books? Look no further! Click the image below to download our summer reading suggestions for all levels.
