by Selena Robinson

Created on: November 20, 2009   Last Updated: November 25, 2009

Reading is one of the first skills that parents are anxious for their children to learn. To meet this need, there are scores of educational programs and software designed to teach reading to preschoolers and even babies. But, while assisted reading programs can be helpful, there are easier and more affordable ways for parents to promote reading in the home. Here are a few tips for nurturing reading in young children.

Set the Example.

Children are naturally inclined to imitate their parents. If they see Mommy and Daddy reading for pleasure, they are much more likely to want to do the same. If parents find it difficult to make time for this, they can start with something simple, like the Sunday newspaper. Spending a few minutes browsing the paper with the child can spark the child's interest in what words and pictures mean.

Establish a Regular Reading Routine.

Children thrive on established routines and maintaining a regular reading time is a good way to help them make reading a habit. One way to do this is by devoting 10 to 15 minutes before bedtime to read a story with them. This will help parents both to encourage reading and to set a regular bedtime. It is also important to keep the reading time at a specified limit, since this will build interest for what will be read the following night.

Start Early.

Thanks to child-safe materials, even the youngest babies can have their own libraries. Parents can introduce their infants to cloth books right away and, while the babies might use these as teething toys at first, they can slowly be shown how to look at the pictures and turn the pages. As the babies get older, bath books and board books can be used for play. These are good choices for very young children, since they are inexpensive and easy to handle.

Make Good Use of the Local Library.

Most libraries have designated children's departments with books that appeal to the youngest readers. Some library systems offer reading programs and story times that can help to get kids excited about reading. Parents can also inquire about getting a library card for their child. Allowing a child to select his or her own books and check them out on their own card helps the child to explore new books and to learn responsibility.

Limit Artificial Stimulation.

Television, computers and video games certainly have their place in the home, but, when used in excess, these can hamper a child's imagination. As children spend more and more time with these electronic forms of entertainment, they tend to become less interested in reading. Parents can avoid this by setting daily limits on television or computer time and promoting reading as a way to spend time together instead.

Promoting reading in young children doesn't necessarily require costly programs or software. Parents can nurture reading by simply making enjoyable reading a priority in the home. Doing so will help children grow to love reading along with their families.

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