The language children speak today is not the language we spoke when we were growing up. English is still English; however, instead of enriching their vocabulary through books, the screens teach our kids everything they know. There is no point in fighting it. These are new times, and the generation gap is significant; however, this doesn’t mean there is nothing to do to make your children spend less time on screens and more time reading a book.
The Storyteller
We all underestimate the significance and the importance of telling a story. When we read to our kids, we transform the words that are on paper into a fairytale and assist them in drifting off to magical kingdoms. By reading to them, we encourage them to use their imagination and create a world of their own. It doesn’t matter if you read to them before they go to sleep or in the afternoon when there is nothing else to do. The more you read to them, the more they will want, eventually, to read to others.
A Cozy Environment
Sometimes, the surroundings can make all of the difference. Reading a book by the dining table or reading a book on a cozy couch with a standing lamp and a warm radiator is totally different. Make sure to create a reading haven for your children—a place they will want to visit over and over again. Add some soft blankets and stock all the books nearby so they won’t have to go too far if they feel like trying something else (we know how lazy the new kid generation can be).
Make It Exciting
Make reading fun, and try to turn everything related to reading into a game. Try preparing a treasure map, directing the children to find a specific book hidden around the house, or writing a puzzle with hints regarding the new book you bought. Use your imagination and enrich the value of the book. Then, your kids will treat it with the same respect it deserves.
Reading Buddies
This one works wonders with the younger children. Reading with someone is always so much fun and far more appealing than reading alone. Encouraging your kids to invite their friends for reading time at your house (alongside healthy snacks) will boost your child’s self-esteem, make it fun and easy to read, and make the friend’s parents very happy.
Reading Rewards
If reading doesn’t come naturally to your kid or if you find yourself nagging and going on and on about the importance of it, try to reward your kids whenever they do read. Set some reading goals, such as a treat or fun day out after completing a few chapters, and reward them whenever they achieve them. Slowly, they will learn to enjoy books and discover the beauty of consuming literature.
A Never-Ending Story
Books will forever exist in one form or another. We can see today how many alternatives books can have, however, there is something about holding a book’s cover, and such a fulfilling feeling when completing the last chapter, that it is our obligation to pass down the importance and significance reading can have on our lives. Don’t give up; the journey will be challenging; however, once you are there, your kids won’t be able to thank you enough.