Page 18 - Education February 2022 final_Neat

How to

develop

reading habit

in children?

Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are”- These reading with something fun and memorable. Signing up your kids to online reading
profound words by Mason Cooley are the most relevant, especially for the last apps which offer a plethora of digital books is another great way for them to explore
“couple of years, where we were mostly confined to the four walls of the house. different authors, titles and styles of writing.
Reading is one of the best adventures you can embark upon.
It has the ability to transport us to incredible places, unearth and explore new Variety is key
cultures, languages, and experiences that can shape the way we look at the world. In When deciding on what to read to your child or for them to read, don’t just stick to
today’s fast, tech-driven world, it is more important than ever to inculcate in children one or two kinds of books. Rummage the book shop or online libraries for various
the value of reading books — be it virtual or physical — in their path to become genres like adventure, space, famous leaders, child prodigies, fantasy, and much
change-makers and trendsetters.
more. Play with fiction, non-fiction, plays, poetry, and more. Exposure to a plethora
Nothing fuels imagination like reading – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. of different writing styles, authors, and genres can help children be more open-
Research shows that kids who start reading at a young age have a better vocabulary, minded, and ready to take on new challenges. Never underestimate the value of
comprehension skills, attention span, and a higher level of confidence. It’s a great real-life experiences. Sharing your own life stories and talking about the various
tool to improve and sharpen memory too. adventures you have had when you were a kid is another approach that could help
However, getting kids to start reading can be challenging, and turning it into a children get hooked on the art of storytelling.
habit even more so. But that’s where parenting experience comes to the fore. From
getting kids accustomed to new people, food, environments, or habits, parents and Create visual engagement
early educators both play a crucial role. Just the same way, with the right approach
and method, parents and primary educators can ignite in children the curiosity There is enough evidence to prove that children retain information better when
towards books and instill the hobby of reading. learning happens through visual mediums. This is where pictorial books could help
your child retain, remember, and develop an interest in reading. In fact, you can
make the reading experience even more engaging by turning it into a movie-like
Start early experience. Especially for younger kids, Use eye and hand gestures, be expressive
It’s never too late to start. However, an early introduction to books could be the and animated while explaining sequences. You could use toys and props to recreate
simplest way to kick-start the habit. You can begin with reading out storybooks to characters, use different voices, etc. This could fuel childrens’ power of imagination
your toddlers during bed or bath time. It’s great bonding time with your kids and and encourage them to read more.
they will start looking forward to this dedicated time every day.
And once this becomes a ritual, your child would be naturally drawn towards books Lead by example
as they grow up. Reading out loud helps children experience the joys of storytelling If you want them to read, read yourself too. Children indeed learn more from
and can spark an interest in reading early. It’s a gateway to enhance knowledge, build watching what we do, rather than what we teach. Set an example for your child that
awareness and empathy. reading is a fruitful use of time. Making reading a joyful experience, a practice, and a
routine will make a huge difference in your child’s approach towards books.
Create a dedicated reading corner Reading is a beautiful thing – don’t let your child miss out on it. However, it is
Children are inquisitive and creative by nature and they love playing outdoors. important to understand that pressuring or compelling them to read is not the
So, how do you encourage them to read — which is mostly an indoor activity? By answer. Remember, it takes patience to build a good habit, so don’t give up. Readout
bringing the joys of outdoors indoors! You could decorate one corner or room in loud to your children consistently, and you’ll be surprised to see them read things
your home as a tepee or camping site or even a small playground which can be a back to you soon enough. Harness your child’s natural curiosity and guide them
dedicated spot for reading. With activities like these, children can begin associating towards books as great companions and knowledge bearers.

18 EDUCATION
DURING THE PANDEMIC