Reading for Kids

Reading for Kids - The Key to Academic Success

Millions of works have been written on the topic of reading for kids. Good reading skills are essential to achieve success inside and outside the classroom. Reading for kids can also provide solace, comfort, and personal growth. If kids don't learn to read well early on, they can develop problems that affect their school work, as well as their self-esteem.

In the words of the American Federation of Teachers, "Those who learn to read with ease in the early grades have a foundation on which to build new knowledge. Those who do not are doomed to repeated cycles of frustration and failure."

Reading for kids should be seen as fun, not a chore. Get your child started early by reading aloud to him, right from birth. Make reading aloud as much a part of the day as eating and tooth-brushing. Have books and other reading materials available to entice your child. Libraries are perfect sources of free reading material, and used bookstores often have inexpensive children's books. Trade books with friends. Give books as gifts and ask relatives to do the same.

Reading for kids opens a world of fantasy and adventure. Nurture your inner thespian by acting out the stories you read and doing different voices for each character. As your child learns to read himself, he will want to join in the theatrics. Encourage him to create new stories with favorite characters.

It's easier to encourage reading for kids when children are excited about the topic. Does your child want to see an upcoming movie? Find the book and have him read it before you hit the theater. If your child enjoys adventure comics, lead him to graphic novels and science fiction with strong heroes and heroines. Does he love rock music? Find him good music biographies or get him a subscription to a music magazine

Take your child to events at the library and at area bookstores. He may be inspired by meeting an author or talking with other children about books. Most importantly, share your love of books with him. Let him see you enjoying an exciting mystery novel or a good biography. Put aside time to talk to each other about what you both are reading. Remember that you are giving him a skill and a pastime that will last a lifetime.