Tips for building your kid’s love of reading and reading skills
Find compelling books, build vocabulary, gamify reading, use metacognitive strategies, support kids with dyslexia, and more.
Ah, the joys of reading! Whether you're aiming to turn your little one into a bookworm or reignite a love for literature in your teen, you've come to the right place. We're about to unpack a treasure chest of tips that'll make reading as irresistible as pancakes on a Sunday morning. But first, let's talk about why fostering a love for reading is so important.
It's not just a ticket to magical worlds or thrilling adventures; it's a foundational skill that impacts academic success and personal development. Reading enhances vocabulary, improves focus and concentration, and even boosts empathy by allowing kids to step into someone else's shoes. Plus, it's a lifelong skill that opens doors to knowledge and imagination that last well into adulthood. It's a pretty big deal.
We’ve pulled together a stack of tips and advice to not only help you build your child’s reading skills but also ignite a passion for the written word that will last a lifetime. Let's go and make reading the new family favorite, shall we?
For young readers
Practicing sight words
Ah, sight words. Those little rule-breakers of the English language that march to the beat of their own drum. They're the wild cards that don't fit neatly into phonetic rules but are crucial for early reading. So, how do we tackle these rebels? First off, don't go overboard by throwing a dictionary's worth of sight words at your kiddo. Start with a manageable list of 10-15 words, and once they've got those down, then you can add more to the mix.
And don’t just stop at flashcards–they're great for repetition and memorization, but should always be part of a broader strategy that brings context. Use those words in sentences and within stories to help your child see how they function in the wild. Incorporate them into daily activities, games like bingo or a scavenger hunt, or even explore some apps and interactive websites. The aim is to make the learning experience rich and meaningful, not just a rote exercise.
Finding compelling books
Picking the right book for your kiddo is a bit like choosing the perfect playlist–it's got to hit all the right notes. Letting them pick their own books is a great start, but you can also play the role of literary DJ by tuning into their interests. Got a dragon enthusiast on your hands? Or maybe a budding astronaut? Use that intel next time you're at the library or bookstore, and grab a few titles that align with their current obsessions. If you're really stumped, don't hesitate to ask for recommendations–librarians, teachers, and great lists like this will give you fantastic suggestions tailored to your child's age and interests.
Series books are also a great choice; they often end on cliffhangers that get your child excited to dive into the next installment. Oh, and one last point here–never underestimate the allure of a captivating cover. Sometimes, a little visual intrigue is all it takes to get them to crack open a new book.
Vocabulary building
Words are like LEGO blocks for the imagination—the more you have, the cooler stuff you can build. Let's turn your kid into a Master Builder. When you come across an unfamiliar word while reading, don't just skip over it. Make it the start of the show! Take a moment to discuss it. Use it in a sentence or two, or relate it to something they already know.
And don't just limit this to reading time; life is full of opportunities to add new blocks to the set. Whether you're navigating the maze of a supermarket ("This spiky thing? That's a durian, the world's smelliest fruit!") or trekking in the great outdoors ("See that bird? That's a falcon; they're super fast!"), seize those moments to drop some wordy wisdom. It's like adding sprinkles, hot fudge, and a cherry on top of their language sundae.
Reading aloud/shared reading
The good old bedtime story is a classic for a reason. But let's take it up a notch because reading aloud isn’t just great at winding children down after a busy day–it’s also a full-on language lab. Make it interactive by pausing to ask questions like, "What's going to happen to our hero next?" or "Do you think the dragon is really that bad?" Get into character with funny voices, exaggerated expressions, and pauses, and–if you’re up for it–maybe even some hand puppets. And don’t feel you need to stick to picture books. Set out on a journey together by trying something with chapters or a full series. It's a great way to introduce a huge range of vocabulary, improve comprehension, and bond over something you’re both enjoying. So, grab that book, get cozy, and let the shared reading escapades roll.
Repetition and routine
You know how kids can watch the same movie a gazillion times and still laugh at the same jokes? That's not just them being easily amused; that's the power of repetition doing its thing. And it works wonders for reading, too. Consistency is your undercover ally here. Slide reading into the daily routine, right next to brushing teeth and avoiding bedtime. The trick is to keep it fresh and engaging so it never feels boring. Rotate those books, explore different genres, and maybe even let them read past their bedtime once in a while. Because fostering a love for reading? That's a habit worth bending the rules for.
Reading assessment or tutoring
If you struggle with how to best support your young reader, it might be time to consult the experts. A reading assessment can be like a trusty GPS, guiding you and your child to where they should go for that extra little help. And if you're considering more personalized support, 1-on-1 tutoring can make a world of difference. Outschool offers assessments and specialized tutoring sessions tailored to your child's needs. It's like having a personal reading coach helping you navigate the complexities of phonics, comprehension, and vocabulary. So, if you're looking to boost your child's reading journey, don't hesitate to seek out some professional guidance. Trust us. It’s a step that could make all the difference.
For big kids
Unique books for reluctant readers
We get it. Not every kid will be captivated by the classics or the latest bestseller. That's where the alternative heroes of the book world come in: graphic novels, choose-your-own-adventure books, and interactive novels. Think of them as the indie films of the literary scene - offbeat, engaging, and a total hit with kids who'd rather be gaming. These formats are perfect for those who find traditional books a bit of a snooze. So if you've got a reluctant reader, they may just be the cheat code you’ve been looking for. They offer all the benefits of reading - like improved vocabulary and better focus - but in a format that speaks their language. For some kids, these books can be like finding the golden ticket in the world of reading.
Using gamification techniques
Welcome to the sweet spot where learning and fun collide–gamification. Have you ever considered using role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons to spark your kid's love for storytelling? It's like sneaking veggies into their favorite dish; they're learning, and they don't even know it. Games like D&D make reading and storytelling a group activity and introduce juicy elements like plot twists, character development, and fantastical settings. Plus, the vocabulary expansion is real–think spell names, mythical creatures, and medieval jargon. Your kid gets to be the hero in a grand adventure, and you get the satisfaction of knowing they're absorbing skills faster than a wizard casting spells. It's a level-up for everyone.
Reading aloud/shared reading
Think storytime is just for the kiddie table? Think again. Reading aloud is a wonderful bonding experience that even your too-cool-for-school teen won't roll their eyes at. Whether you're diving into a nail-biting mystery, a galaxy-spanning sci-fi, or a historical saga, hearing a story out loud can be just as enthralling for older kids as picture books are for the little ones.
It's also a great way to tackle more complex themes, boost comprehension, and start conversations that spillway outside the actual reading time. You can even make it a whole family thing. Take turns reading chapters or even just memorable snippets. It's like having a book club–but without the awkward small talk. And who knows, you might just turn that screen-obsessed teen into an undercover bookworm. So, grab a book, gather the fam, and let the shared reading adventures roll.
Reading clubs
Think book clubs are just for adults sipping wine and discussing the latest bestseller? Think again. Reading clubs for kids are like the ultimate playground for young bookworms. It's a space where they can geek out about their favorite characters, debate over plot twists, and make predictions about the sequel—all while making friends who share their literary tastes. Plus, it adds a social element to reading that can be especially appealing to older kids. So, whether it's a school-based club or an online gathering through platforms like Outschool, get your kid signed up. It's a chance for them to find their tribe, all while deepening their love for reading.
Metacognitive strategies
Ever heard of metacognitive strategies? No, it's not the title of a sci-fi novel; it's a set of tools that can turn your kid into a reading detective. Metacognition is essentially thinking about thinking. It's about being aware of your thought process as you read. Instead of just skimming the words, your child learns to dig deeper into the story, question the characters’ motives, and even predict plot twists. These strategies can range from asking questions before diving into a chapter to pausing mid-page to summarize what's happened so far. It's like handing them a mental magnifying glass to scrutinize every element of a story. And don't just take our word for it; this approach is research-backed to boost both comprehension and enjoyment. So, if you want to elevate your child's reading from a mere hobby to a full-on intellectual quest, metacognitive strategies are your secret weapon.
Support for dyslexic readers
If your child is struggling with dyslexia, reading can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces. But here's the good news: dyslexia is not a roadblock; it's just a detour. With the right strategies and resources, like specialized classes offered by Outschool, your child can become a confident reader. These classes focus on multi-sensory techniques and tailored approaches that make reading more accessible and enjoyable. So, if you're navigating the dyslexia journey, remember, you're not alone. With the right support, your child can turn that detour into a scenic route filled with reading adventures.
Outschool's reading resources
Think of Outschool as your reading pit crew, always ready to turbocharge your kid's love for books. Whether you're navigating the twists and turns of dyslexia or looking to join a virtual book club that's more exciting than a movie night, Outschool has a class for that. Need specialized one-on-one tutoring? Consider it done. With Outschool, you've got a personalized reading coach just a click away, ready to swoop in and save the day whenever you hit a reading roadblock. So, if you're looking for that extra oomph to elevate your child's reading journey, Outschool is the sidekick you've been waiting for.
Conclusion
Alright, folks, our journey through the literary landscape is complete - from the building blocks of sight words to the mind-bending magic of metacognitive strategies. We've even thrown in some Outschool superpowers for good measure. Whether your little one is just starting their reading adventure or your big kid needs that extra nudge, we've got something for everyone. Your child's next favorite book is out there just waiting to be devoured, so go help them find it, snuggle up, and let the reading adventures begin. This is a journey both you and your child will cherish forever.
Happy reading!
