Battling the screen epidemic and trying to get children to read these days is tough. Especially when we find ourselves gravitating towards Facebook and TikTok rather than the book lying next to our beds. Luckily, with these tricks, you can make reading fun for kids.
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Let them decide what to read
One way to encourage reading is to let your kids decide what they want to read! Let them loose in the library or bookstore (not entirely, though, keep an eye on them) and allow them to pick out their next book.
Ditch the monotone
Instead, transform into the characters themselves! Let your voice boom as you become the grumpy ogre guarding the bridge, or erupt in giggles as you narrate the adventures of a mischievous fairy. Reading aloud isn’t just about pronunciation; it’s a full-blown performance!
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Get interactive
Turn your living room into a stage! Drag out the dress-up box. Is your child braving a pirate adventure? Bandanas and eye patches become essential gear. Is it a daring escape from a haunted castle? Sheets transform into flowing cloaks as you navigate the spooky halls.
Don’t just read: create!
Finished a tale about a courageous knight? Gather cardboard boxes, paint, and markers and build a magnificent cardboard castle. Reading about a fantastical creature? Pipe cleaners, construction paper, and googly eyes become the tools to bring this literary friend to life!
Let food be an after-reading snack
Food is the universal language, even in the world of books! Reading about a daring escape through the jungle? Whip up a batch of “monkey bread” for a post-adventure snack. Baking cookies shaped like the hero’s magical amulet adds another layer of fun to the story.
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Get reading buddies
Studies show children often relax and open up around pets. So snuggle up with your furry companion for a storytime session. Let your child read to their favourite feline friend, or create a cosy corner where they can cuddle up with a book and their favourite stuffed animal.
Combine tech and reading
Yes, blue light is bad (apparently) and the purpose of books and reading is to get your kids away from their tablets and phones. But, hear me out, getting them to read on their devices can act as a gateway to reading physical books.
Try it and see how it goes!
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