When the reading is forced as homework, it can make this unpleasant task even more difficult. Parents are then left to find solutions for getting their child to read. Even more disheartening is that your child can quickly fall behind in their reading levels if they don’t maintain a certain level of reading. If your child is assigned to read for an allotted time each night or has to read one book a week – you are probably right there hovering over them, setting timers, and pointing your finger so that they will keep their nose in the book. As your child gets older, this can become a huge point of contention between parent and child. Unfortunately, though, it will eventually affect their grades and performance in school.
There is no reason to discuss the zillion reasons that reading is vital to your child’s educational success. You already know this. The trick if getting them to read things that they enjoy. In the Accelerated Reading program, there are certain books that children have to read in order to be tested and credited for the material. Yet, this program has thousands upon thousands of titles. Your school library may not have but a fraction of these books on their shelves. Instead of forcing your child to read books about subjects they are not interested in, peruse the readings lists by subject area and find ones that will resonate with your child. If your child loves baseball – find baseball books. If they love horses, dragons, mysteries or humor – then look for books in this area. Additionally, many of the non-fiction books that are packed with interesting pictures of natural events and occurrences can intrigue even the most bored child.
Then, try to allow your child to find times to read that suit them. Rather than make them come home from school and stick their nose straight into a book – give them some flexibility. They might read better before bed, or in the car on the way to school. When you release some of the pressure from the reading experience and allow them to be responsible for it – they may think of it as something beside a power struggle. Additionally, introduce magazines, newspapers and other periodicals for your child to read.
Another way to get your child reading is to offer a little incentive at home. Remember – there are plenty of adults who hate to read, so your child is not an educational misfit because they would rather be doing something else. If you can offer a variety of material and perhaps something special for reading without a struggle, they may realize there is payoff in reading. You can also try reading a book with them. Sometimes children don’t like to read because they have a hard time reading quietly and understanding the material. They may be too embarrassed to tell you or their teacher this. Yet, if you and your child read a book together, out loud – you can help with their comprehension and interest.
As a parent, you also may have to face the fact that your child will never love to read. And this is okay. However, remind them that in life they have to do certain things – whether they want to or not – that are often unpleasant. If you and your child can talk and agree on finding books and opportunities to read that are more enjoyable for them, you may help win the battle over the books.