How To Raise A Reader?

7 Tips to raise a reader

Out of all the kids' activities, why does reading top the charts and how to push your child in reading like a natural?

Rightly said by Margaret Fuller: today a reader, tomorrow a leader. Reading not only helps in commending results at academics but also helps to expand children's minds, improves their communication, language skills and gives them a power of imagination, which opens doors to all kinds of new worlds for them. But before you try to instill the joy and time-stopping pleasure of reading in your baby it is essential to love reading yourself.

Did you know you could read out to infants too? It's never too early to spark an interest in your child towards reading. Studies show that the number of words an infant listens to has a direct impact on language development and literacy. But the important thing here is: the language has to be in-person and aimed towards the child. That is why reading out loud to them in their early stages plays a big role in their lives. Raising a reader is fun, easy and equally rewarding. But are you concerned about how to start?

Here's a little guide on how to raise a reader who not only reads regularly but also enjoys every bit of it.

1. Read to your child day after day

It is very important to develop a reading ritual. When you assign a specific time of the day to read it makes the baby excited and he starts to enjoy the routine. For instance, you could have a bedtime reading routine or simply a before-breakfast reading time.

2. Lead by example

When kids see their parents reading and enjoying their time, it makes them want to read too. It develops a curiosity to try out a new book which is later followed by the habit of reading daily.

3. Make books easily available for them

Surround your child with good books. You must focus on spending time and money on selecting the most fun and interesting books for your child. Think of creative ways to introduce different books into your children's lives and make it conveniently accessible for them by creating a bookshelf in their bedroom. Need help in picking the right books for your baby? We have you covered right here.

4. Up the fun quotient

Pick an amusing book and read for the kids with full emotions and feelings. Imitate the character's voice, make funny animal sounds and involve fun actions, this will attract the baby more and will create an impactful impression on his mind.

5. Talk about the books

Talk to them about the books that you read, ask them what her favourite part was and let them ask you questions repetitively, this will help your baby explore their interests and think in different directions.

6. Engage them in the art of storytelling

Create stories with your baby about the things that she is truly interested in, this could be related to their favourite experiences: drawings, family tree or a game. Narrate your childhood memories as a story. Let your baby read to you and on some days let them create their own stories.

7. Take trips down to the library

Often take your baby to the library or the bookstore and that might surprise them with independent interests and opinions. Let them express what they like and then try to find similar books.

While reading, don't forget to be comfortable with your baby, eat your favourite snacks, spend quality time with them and often introduce them to new books. This will not only make their experience fun and memorable but will also help them inculcate a lifetime love for reading. Does your baby prefer any specific author’s books? Please share with us in the comments below!