by Blair Worthington

Created on: November 25, 2011   Last Updated: November 28, 2011

Most parents enjoy reading to their children when the kids are very young. What better way to end the day then to snuggle up with your youngster and enjoy a special storybook together? As the kids grow however, there is often a tapering off of the time spent reading together. But this doesn't mean that your child's fondness for reading has to dwindle. The love of reading can be a lifelong joy, even as the kids approach adolescence and the teen years. The following are some tips to help encourage reading habits during the preteen years.

The Preteen Years

The preteen years bring an assortment of emotions and challenges to parenting. Kids are beginning to learn who they are, and their preferences seem to change just as fast as the weather. One minute your child may express an interest in a particular toy or activity, then declare it much too immature for them the next moment. Preteens are often experimenting within their social groups, as well. It’s not uncommon for the preteen to be “BFFs” with a child one day, then the next day sit with someone entirely different at the lunch table. While this behavior may seem perplexing to parents, the ups and downs that the preteen child goes through are common, routine and relatable to anyone that is not too old to recall their own awkward adolescence.

Fortunately, there is a huge assortment of books written by talented authors that brilliantly address the often crazy, dramatic, awkward preteen years. What better audience for such books than actual preteens?

Find Books that Interest Your Child

Adolescents like to feel independent and “in charge”, despite the fact that they still live under their parent’s roof. Rather than buying a book that your preteen may toss aside simply because Mom or Dad suggested the book, why not visit a bookstore and let your child select some books on his own? Give your child some time alone to browse in the section featuring books for adolescents and young adults.

Use the Internet as a Guide

You can look up the current Best Sellers List for children ages 9 – 12 online at the Barnes and Noble website, or browse the Kids Reading List at Oprah.com.  These lists can provide a few suggestions, but the key is to find books that interest your child.

Does you child enjoy sports or special activities, or have any unique hobbies or interests? Chances are you will be able to find a slew of books on special topics of interest. 

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