How to Raise a Reader

Making books an everyday part of your child's life is crucial to their becoming competent readers. There are things that you, as a parent, can do that will help your child forge a positive, lifelong relationship with books.

• Read to your child daily. No matter how old your child is, they will benefit from being read to. Infants and small children learn new words. Older children learn fluency and intonation. Not only are you helping them to become better readers, but you are spending quality time with them and creating memories that will last a lifetime.


• Surround them with reading material.


• Model the behavior. This is so important. By reading you are showing your child that reading is important. It doesn't matter how much time you spend reading. Parents often say they are too busy for books. But ten minutes a day, will make an impression on your child.


• Have books, will travel. Carry small books with you at all times. Keep books in the car and in your bag. You will always find a few minutes a day to read, whether it be on line at the supermarket or waiting for your food at a restaurant.


• Visit your local library and book stores.


• Build your child a personal library. Children should have a special place for their books, even if its only a milk crate or box. Studies show that there is a correlation between the number of books a child owns and their reading ability. Check local library book sales and garage sales for deals on children's books.


• Give books as gifts. I often give a book along with a toy. Forget the expensive birthday card. Have your child make the card and put the money toward a paperback book. By giving books as gifts you not only help the recipient, but you show your child that a book is a treasured gift.