Reading Week: Tips to Keep Your Child Interested in Books

Thanks for coming back to learn tips that address each one of the facts I mentioned yesterday (permalink).

The #1 reason kids give for not reading more is that they can’t find books they like to read. To combat this, matching a child’s mood and interests with the right book will make all the difference in the world. Find non-fiction books about a favorite pet or summer destination or a fiction books by favorite authors or involving familiar characters.

At age 8, the amount of time children spend reading for fun drops dramatically. During elementary school, children get so busy with extra curriculars that the time spent in organized activities detracts from reading time. Have a set time of day where you make sure that you read together and have conversations about books.

74% of kids who read frequently name parents as the top source of book suggestions. Plan a field trip to a library or bookstore to find a new book together. If you are stumped, ask a friend to recommend a list of books their child has enjoyed.

49% of boys enjoy reading for fun “a lot” compared to 57% of girls. Try a different reading genre such as science fiction, graphic novels, or non-fiction books. Such themes are bound to get boys interested in reading and will also interest girls.

65% of kids say they have been doing better in school since they started reading the Harry Potter series. Harry Potter hooked kids because it was a series.

Other great series to interest your reader include:

• Richard Scarry’s Busytown Books (ages 2-4)
• Puppy Mudge by Cynthia Rylant (ages 3-4)
• Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel (ages 3-5)
• Henry and Mudge by Cynthia Rylant (ages 4-6)
• The Magic Treehouse by Mary Pope Osborne (ages 6-8)
• Junie B. Jones by Barbara Park (ages 6-8)
• Encyclopedia Brown books (ages 7-9)
• Baby-Sitters Club (ages 7-9)
• Anything by Beverly Cleary (ages 8 and up)
• The Chronicles of Narnia (ages 10 and up)
• The Lord of the Rings (ages 13 and up)

To shop for books, Amazon and Scholastic Store sites generally have the best deals. Amazon always offers free super saver shipping with orders of $25 or more and the Scholastic Store is offering 15% off and free shipping with orders of $39 or more until June 30th.

While parental involvement is important in keeping your child reading while school is out, summer incentive programs are also designed to maintain interest in reading.

Check back tomorrow for information on great summer reading programs that your child can participate in. And a giveaway that is not to be missed!

Facts from The 2006 Kids and Family Reading Report

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