The key to hooking your kids into reading is a combination of starting them early and guiding them the rest of the way. The 21st century has introduced children to different forms of media and somehow, reading seems to be a neglected activity. The internet may be a powerful learning tool, but for children to grow up with a good learning foundation they should also be exposed to the wonderful world of books as much as possible.

Here are some tips for the parents out there who wants to introduce their children to the joys of reading:

"Start Out With Easy Reading Material"

Over the years, the attention span of kids has begun to diminish. It is therefore not advisable to rush things and start your kids on the classics right away, before they can even begin to appreciate the simpler books appropriate for their age. Some parents have the wrong notion that by introducing their non-reading kids to Twain, Dickens and Longfellow, they would grow up to become voracious readers.

Actually, by doing this, it might alienate the kids even more. You have to understand that children can get bored and tired easily. If you have a first-grader, find books that are at par to their level. It's good to keep in mind that not all kids have that hunger for literature. You have to initiate the kid before you can move on to the relatively difficult reading material. Give him time to appreciate the books. If you see that he's beginning to love reading, then you can gradually show him the other more sophisticated stuff.

"Know Your Kid's Interests"

Much like in music, different kids have different preferences when it comes to their reading material. Some would prefer whimsical fairy tales and grand fantasy stories. Some likes to read about books which pertain to a particular hobby or skill. Still there are others would rather read those books which they can associate to the real world.

It helps a lot if you can pinpoint what your kid enjoys the most, although it would be nice if you can expand the reading materials beyond that one interest and avoid being boxed in by his/her preferences alone. Most books today have been tailor-made for this generation. If your kid doesn't enjoy reading the classic books you've grown up reading, then don't try force him on that road. Kids can be pretty stubborn. You don't want them to abhor reading altogether! For as long as they can learn something from what they're reading, then you should be supportive.

"Read With Your Child"

The parent can be a good role model so their kids can form a good reading habit. Read something with your child every once in a while. You can even try reading the newspaper together. Encourage him to form his own opinions. Critical thinking can be developed in doing so. Always try to be there when your child reaches a "reading milestone", like when he finishes a book or when he starts asking rhetorical questions.

It is also advisable for their parents to accompany them as they read because children can misunderstand/misinterpret what they are reading. Help them with difficult words. You're not just expanding their vocabulary, but in the process you are also helping them to improve their reading comprehension.

It is always nice to see kids who enjoy reading. In fact, there's this wise quote by the famous Dr. Seuss: The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.

Learn more about this author, Julius Albert Custodio.
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