How can I encourage reading in my home?

Hello, Conscious Parent! Welcome to “Dear Katherine,” a Q&A with real-life parents/caregivers. If you’d like to submit a question of your own, email me at katherine@consciousparentingrevolution.com.

Dear Katherine,

I have two rambunctious boys, aged 7 and 9, who love the outdoors and staying active. They spend hours each day biking or playing basketball. The pandemic hasn’t been easy on them, so I’ve been giving them plenty of time to roam outdoors. Lately, though, it’s been harder and harder to get them to do their schoolwork. They’re way behind on their reading. As an avid reader myself, I want to instill a love for books in my kids. Any tips on how I can get them to read?

—Bookworm

Dear Bookworm,

Many of the parents I’ve spoken with over the course of the last year find themselves in a similar situation. The pandemic has taken away so much from our children. Naturally we want to let them do the activities they can still enjoy—like riding their bikes or playing in the yard!

Of course, these fun activities can’t be a replacement for their schoolwork. But what if you can show them that reading is fun, too?
 

Here are 5 practical tips for encouraging your kids to pick up a book:

1. Pick a genre they’re interested in. Is your child into animals and insects? Try recommending “Charlotte’s Web” or “Babe.” Do they love a good adventure? “Chronicles of Narnia” might be right up their alley! Capture their attention with topics and genres they already enjoy. 

2. Create a cozy reading nook. Whether it’s a small tent in the living room or a pile of pillows in the bedroom, create a space dedicated to reading. Children love having their own space to enjoy. Make one rule, though: in order to use the reading nook, they actually have to read.