20 Ways to Raise a Reader in the Digital Age
Raising a reader in a world where technology is everywhere can be challenging for parents, but balancing tech with traditional methods can be highly effective when done right.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
Technology has made its way into young minds in ways we can’t imagine. One effective alternative or solution to limit screen time and build healthy habits with your child is reading books. Here are 20 fun and effective ways to start them young.
1. Start Early
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Reading to your child daily sets the stage for early development, even if they can’t read or fully comprehend yet. This opens doors to building their vocabulary and creates a safe space for reading to become a healthy habit.
2. Set a Reading Routine
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Making reading part of your child’s daily routine can go a long way. This will encourage them to listen and read more while also practicing quality time—you can do this during breakfast, after school, or before bedtime.
3. Be a Reader Yourself
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Perhaps the most effective way to raise a reader is to start reading their books yourself! Whether it’s a fairytale, comic book, or fiction, nothing is better than your child seeing you read and enjoy the things they love.
4. Create a Reading Corner at Home
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Build a cozy, quiet space where your kids can find books they’re interested in reading. When books are readily accessible, your kids may be more likely to pick them up and read them.
5. Let Them Choose
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Give your child the freedom to choose what they want to read. Letting them explore different stories and genres makes it more exciting while also practicing a sense of individuality.
6. Provide Different Reading Materials
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Reading materials such as picture books, graphic novels, and interactive books are a great start. These broaden students’ knowledge and improve their vocabulary by introducing them to new formats, ideas, and words.
7. Read Together
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As they always say, there’s no better family bonding activity than reading together. It creates an enjoyable and calming experience for you and your child, so it’s a win-win.
8. Talk About Stories
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Engaging with your kids about what they read makes them feel that you’re interested and that they are seen. Ask them questions, listen to their stories, and show that you value their thoughts and opinions.
9. Be a Reading Role Model
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If you want your kid to become a good reader, become a reading role model! Showing them that you read regularly sends a strong message: planting the seeds to develop their love for reading.
10. Give Books as Gifts
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Instilling a love for reading could be very invaluable for kids. Begin by showing them that books are unique and give them as presents.
11. Visit the Library
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Libraries are the most beautiful places to introduce books and reading to your kids. To help your children become better readers, taking them to a public library is the perfect choice.
12. Join a Book Club
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Another way to foster a love for learning and reading is by registering your child to a book club! Reading shouldn’t feel lonely; socializing with other kids makes it more fun and accessible.
13. Introduce Audiobooks
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You can still keep your child in the loop when you’re not at home by having them listen to audiobooks. This offers the same benefits as reading and is a great way to enjoy stories together, especially during car rides.
14. Use Books and Tech
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A balanced use of traditional books and educational reading apps leads to a more effective approach to reading. By utilizing these methods wisely and efficiently, children can develop a well-rounded reading habit.
15. Offer Graphic Novels
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Reading should be fun and easy for kids, and it should be accompanied by visuals. Graphic novels inspire readers to become more visually literate and improve their comprehension skills.
16. Play Word Games
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Playing word games like Scrabble is a great way to improve your child’s reading skills. You can also teach them to build vocabulary and learn new words.
17. Limit Screen Time
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While kids these days use gadgets for learning, it’s important to remind them that books should still be a go-to activity. Setting specific screen times and regular reading sessions helps create a healthy balance between books and educational reading apps.
18. Use E-Books Wisely
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Aside from traditional books, you can also let them explore e-books, but limiting their screen time is essential to keep them engaged and avoid overly focusing on gadgets.
19. Track Their Reading Progress
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Keeping track of the books they’ve completed reading helps you understand what they’ve learned and allows you to celebrate their small achievements. This way, you can also talk about the stories they’ve read, which can improve their understanding of various topics.
20. Be Patient and Consistent
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A good reader is shaped when encouraged to enjoy and love reading at their own pace. It’s important to respect their time and celebrate every small step.