As parents, you hold the power to shape your child’s future in countless ways. One of the best things you can do for your child is inspire a love of reading. You might be wondering how to get started so you can raise a lifetime reader.
The journey begins right within the walls of your home, where a reading-friendly environment lays the foundation and inspires a lasting love for reading.
6 Essential Steps to Cultivate a Reading-Friendly Home
Creating a home environment that enables you to raise a lifetime reader begins when you and your child bond behind a good book. And, it continues by implementing some essential practices in the home, which help your child associate reading with pleasure.
1. Surround Your Child with Books
Make books even more accessible than toys and gadgets. Fill your child’s environment with a diverse collection of books: picture books, storybooks, fairy tales, fables, and more. Create cozy reading nooks. Install shelves where books can be stored with their covers facing out. And, make sure little hands can easily reach every book.
The sight of books beckoning from every corner sends a powerful message that reading is a delightful and integral part of daily life.
3. Lead by Example
The act of role modeling is an integral part of Read Aloud America’s philosophy, the 3 Rings to Reading. Children are keen observers, and they often emulate the behaviors they witness. Let them see you engrossed in a book—whether it’s a novel, a magazine, or even a cookbook. Your enthusiasm for reading will naturally pique their curiosity and encourage them to follow suit.
The fact is, your child looks up to you the most. He or she deeply desires to do the things you do. Your example of reading voluntarily, and enjoying it, will inspire your kids to turn away from a screen and pick up a book instead.
3. Make Reading a Ritual
The act of role modeling is an integral part of Read Aloud America’s philosophy, the 3 Rings to Reading. Children are keen observers, and they often emulate the behaviors they witness. Let them see you engrossed in a book—whether it’s a novel, a magazine, or even a cookbook. Your enthusiasm for reading will naturally pique their curiosity and encourage them to follow suit.
The fact is, your child looks up to you the most. He or she deeply desires to do the things you do. Your example of reading voluntarily, and enjoying it, will inspire your kids to turn away from a screen and pick up a book instead.
4. Create a Reading-Friendly Space
Design a dedicated space that celebrates reading. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—a cozy corner with comfortable cushions, soft lighting, and a small bookshelf will do wonders.
Let your child personalize this space with their favorite books, stuffed animals, or pictures on the wall. Add pillows or soft blankets to make it a comfortable place to read and relax. A reading sanctuary that reflects their interests will naturally draw them in and encourage extended periods of reading.
5. Connect Stories to Real Life
Take your child on an outdoor literary adventure! This will help your child make connections between stories and the world around them.
For example, if you read books about nature or seasonal changes, go on a nature walk and point out real-life examples of things you saw in your books. Or, as you watch the seasons change, read books about why we see different colors and transformations. If you’re even more adventurous, you can take your child to places that they see in their books, such as City Hall, the fire station, or an aquarium!
6. Follow Your Child’s Curiosity
As a parent, it’s very easy to slip into “quiz mode,” and ask your children questions about a story you read to them. But, our eagerness to see what they’re comprehending can quickly feel like a stressful test to children.
Instead, follow their lead. Children will naturally have questions and comments when they listen to a story. Respond to their questions when they ask. Engage in loving conversations when children make observations or connect the story to something they heard about. These exchanges nurture your children’s curiosity and enrich your children’s comprehension far more than any quiz-like question.
Encourage Children’s Interests
Cultivating a reading-friendly home is a gift that will accompany your child throughout their life’s journey. Remember, the journey may vary for each child. Some may dive into novels with enthusiasm, while others may prefer picture books or graphic novels.
The key is to foster an environment that honors their unique preferences and encourages them to explore at their own pace. When you relax and role model the enjoyment of reading, your children are likely to follow suit.
And, as a result, you’ll not only raise a lifetime reader, but you’ll also nurture a young mind, ignite a passion for learning, and shape a future filled with endless possibilities.