by M. J. Joachim

Created on: May 05, 2009   Last Updated: May 26, 2009

Making Reading Fun and Interesting

Children are curious by nature. They want to explore everything they can get their hands on. So why does it seem that some of them don't like to read? The answer is that they don't have access to material that intrigues them. If something sparks a child's interest, whether from a friend, television, video game, or even a book, they will devour its contents.

If you want to help a reluctant reader discover how wonderful reading can be, the first thing you need to do is make it interesting and fun. After that, there are several things you can do to expand on your initial step of developing a reluctant reader's appetite for reading.

1. Have a positive attitude about reading. You don't need to go around like Miss Molly Sunshine praising reading unequivocally. It's enough to keep a good novel nearby, browse through a magazine with genuine interest, and discuss some of the things you learn.

2. Create pleasant reading experiences. Write little notes with happy thoughts just for fun, and give them to your reluctant reader. Spell out messages with magnets on the refrigerator, inviting participation and response.

3. Go on reading outings. Whether it's a trip to the library because they're hosting an event, or an opportunity to attend a book signing at your favorite bookstore, take your reluctant reader with you, and let him see how many people love books.

4. Play reading games. You don't have to teach a reluctant reader how to play Scrabble, although it's not a bad idea. There are many categories of word games. Let your reluctant reader play computer reading games, board games, and even do crossword puzzles.

5. Surprise your reluctant reader with a cool magazine. Hey, it doesn't matter what they read, as long as it gets them reading, right? Make it age appropriate, of course, and preferably interactive.

6. Have fun spelling words from road signs and when out shopping. This activity improves spelling and vocabulary, making reading an easier activity.

7. Build reading confidence. Promote good reading skills, and use praise lavishly. Be genuine as you encourage your friend in his quest to have fun with reading.

8. Let your reluctant reader surf the Internet. Okay, this idea requires supervision. So take the time to supervise as your reading buddy finds more than enough to read, with just the click of a mouse.

There are no hard and fast rules about how to help someone enjoy reading. However it has been proven that people gravitate toward activities they enjoy. When something like reading becomes an enjoyable experience, as opposed to an unending boring chore, reluctant readers will naturally get hooked on reading.

Learn more about this author, M. J. Joachim.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.