9 Easy Ways To Boost Your Child’s Reading Skills

Reading is like a superpower that unlocks knowledge, creativity, and a world of imagination. Like most parents, you want the best for your child, including helping them become fantastic readers.

However, kids grow and learn at their own unique pace. So, don’t sweat it if you think your little one might be taking their sweet time with reading. Whether you’re worried that they’re lagging or want to give them a leg up in the reading game for a brighter future, you can use the following simple tricks to boost their reading skills. 

1- Lead By Example

If you want your child to excel at reading, here’s a super easy move you can make today. Inspire a love for reading by reading more yourself. It’s as simple as that and can eventually rub off on your child.

When chilling or relaxing with a book, you’re not just reading; you’re setting the stage by showing your kid that learning and growing through reading are total game-changers. Studies even back this up – when little ones see their parents diving into books, they’re way more likely to become bookworms, too. 

2- Feed Their Growing Brain

Growing brains need the right fuel. Eggs, Greek yoghurt, greens, fish, oatmeal, and nuts seeds are like brain superheroes. Omega 3-rich meals can work wonders. Researchers found that they boosted reading skills in kids.

So, consider adding omega-3-rich foods or supplements to your little one’s diet. Supplements like vegetarian omega 3 can be a terrific addition to enhancing your child’s reading abilities. 

3- Get Tech-savvy, But Keep It Balanced

E-readers and tablets are cool. If your kid likes them, let them have some screen time for reading. Finding that sweet balance would help to ensure everything is done moderately.

This way, you’ll help your child pair tech with good old-fashioned books instead of technology servicing as a replacement.

Dive into reading apps, grab some e-books, and check out cool digital libraries online. In addition, you could also improve reading skills with ABCmouse. Its interactive games and learning programs can be a fun supplement to their traditional books, providing comprehensive and engaging educational content. Let your kid savour the best of both worlds, and they’ll always look forward to finishing their next book. 

4- Create Quality Reading Time

It’s essential to carve out time for reading with your child. Reading shouldn’t be a chore or another item on their daily to-do list. It’s about making a cool habit.

Setting aside daily reading time allows your school-age champ to dive into books, understand them, and connect with the stories.

It’s all about building strong reading habits right from the get-go. Instead of getting lost in social media or text, think about how cool it is to focus on a good old book.

It’s a gradual process, but it’s worth it. During independent reading at home, try to keep interruptions to a minimum and be consistent. That way, your child can get into the groove and enjoy their reading time. 

5- Surround Them With Reading Material

Kids are curious creatures and will read just about anything within reach. So, keep books and magazines within arm’s reach.

You can set up a reading nook at home, but that’s not the only way to fill your home with reading materials. The same result can be achieved no matter how much space or budget you have availabl.e

And here’s a quirky tip: don’t hide away that cereal box once breakfast is served. You can leave it around, as they might read the back panel.

Paste labels on doors, windows, and furniture to introduce everyday words for early readers. 

6- Explore Beyond The Book

If your kid is into a particular topic or theme from a book, you can take their learning to the next level.

For instance, suppose they enjoy “Lunch Money” by Andrew Clements, where a kid becomes a business whiz with leftover lunch cash. In that case, after diving into this chapter-packed adventure, you can teach them how money is made and distributed.

If you’re near the Royal Mint Experience, you can take your child on a field trip. Take your little explorer on a tour and watch the money-making magic unfold. You can also learn some of the most amazing coinage history virtually.

You can explore currency-making secrets from anywhere on the map. It’s just one way you can turn your child’s interest into awesome reading adventures and help them become top-notch readers. 

You can also include reading related crafts like this tissue paper bookmark craft that will get kids excited to read more books and use their own home made bookmarks.

7-Dive into the joy of reading aloud

There’s something magical about reading aloud. It introduces your child to stories they might not tackle solo. It also creates a routine and a shared love for books. Plus, it’s a sweet escape from screens and distractions.

According to research, kids whose parents read them five books daily before kindergarten heard 1.4 million more words! Also, remember that reading aloud isn’t just a preschool thing, and you shouldn’t hit the brakes on this awesome habit once your kid becomes a reading superstar.

This step goes beyond their academics as it also benefits their heart and minds. That’s pure gold for their vocabulary and mental health.  

8-Allow your kids to choose

Variety is a spice of life. Therefore, let your child choose what tickles their fancy. Their interests matter, whether comics, cookbooks, or graphic novels. A trip to the library opens up a world of options.

From graphic novels to cookbooks, let them explore new genres. And don’t forget those charming library programs with story times and read-alouds. They’re golden for young readers. 

9-Sign them up for summer reading programs

Summertime is perfect for uninterrupted reading adventures. Check out local summer reading programs, as many libraries and schools offer them. They come with incentives, prizes, and loads of encouragement for your little bookworms. If there’s no program around, start your own book club.

It’s a win-win for building a community of young readers. You can also explore local colleges and universities for reluctant or struggling readers. Some run summer reading programs where aspiring teachers and grad students help struggling readers. It’s like personalised reading therapy for your child. 

And there you have it: nine relaxed and easy ways to supercharge your child’s reading journey and build their love for the activity. Remember, it’s not just about words on pages. It’s about the adventures, the knowledge, and the endless possibilities that books bring. So, go ahead and be their guide on this magical reading voyage. Happy reading!