Reading is an essential life skill that promises several benefits. A study shows that reading aloud to children even as a baby exposes them to “a linguistic and cognitive complexity” that helps them acquire literacy even before schooling.
Teaching kids how to read and making it a habit is as crucial as providing them proper nutrition. Sure, it takes more time, patience, and work, but all the effort is worth it.
These moms share the tips they swear by to help make children look forward to reading time.
1. Let kids read about things that interest them.
As a writer, Jill Tan Radovan understands the benefits of reading, not just in terms of developing writing skills, but also in broadening horizons and enhancing communication skills.
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Jill, who introduced books to her four children at an early age, says it’s important to not dictate the books your kids will read. Instead, let them explore whatever interests them.
“While I have my biases and preferences, I don’t impose them on my kids. I think it’s important that they are genuinely interested in whatever they’re reading,” she says. “I make recommendations and present options, but I don’t force them. As long as the book is age-appropriate, I let them read what they want. At least I know they enjoy what they’re reading.”
She also never forces her children to read when they don’t feel like it. “My 5-year-old loves it when we read together, so I always make sure I find time for her. But if she says she wants to play first, I try to bargain that we practice reading before or after we play.”
2. Do interactive role-playing to make it more fun.
Patricia Valencia says she started reading to her daughter Brienne when she was only 2 months old. The mom believes it is why her daughter seems to be a natural book lover. “We’re lucky we don’t have to force her into it. When it’s pick-a-book time, she never resists. We even catch her ‘reading’ on her own.”
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How does Patricia turn reading into a fun learning activity? Role-playing!
“To keep her interested and motivated to read, we play dress-up and act out the scenes of the stories,” the mom says. “I noticed that the more interactive the reading experience is, the easier she understands not only the plot but, more importantly, the lesson of the story.”
Patricia says Brienne at 3 years old is capable of making her own “analysis” and suggestions for alternate plot lines and endings. “Maybe we are honing a future writer after all!”
3. Surround kids with books and other reading material.
As a teacher and a mother of three, Beverly Concepcion has many tips on how to get children to read more. “Making them love reading does not happen overnight, but with guidance and patience, it is attainable.”
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The mom says it’s important to surround children with books because they are more likely to read one when they always see it. She also “tricks” her kids into reading by making them her “little helpers” in day-to-day activities.
“As much as possible, I keep them involved in whatever I do. If I’m cooking, for instance, I may ask their help in reading the instructions written on the packaging. That way, I can check their comprehension while we’re bonding,” she says.
Beverly also says parents can actually use technology to foster their kids’ love of reading. “I use it to my advantage. After making them read something, I sometimes reward them with screen time, or I let them play the online games that they love so much. I’m amazed at how they can easily follow instructions in the game. I even make them read the instructions aloud sometimes just to check their reading.”
4. Try ‘other’ ways to read with your kids.
Nimfa Vivas shares that she’s introduced 7-year-old Quinn to picture books when her daughter was 3. At first, it was challenging to keep Quinn’s attention, but the mom says she found the answer in audiobooks and interactive books.
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Nimfa says reading aloud with your child is also effective. “Whenever she feels like reading, we read aloud. Pansin ko mas interested siya kapag iniiba-iba yung boses, basic storytelling. Mas engaged ang bata kapag kasama ang parents habang nagbabasa.”
Similar to the other moms, Nimfa also believes reading shouldn’t be forced. “Honestly, mas gusto niya mag-paint at dance than reading. Kaya I only did reading aloud with her when she was 5. Today, my kid doesn’t resist the activity. Pero kung nagre-resist ang bata, huwag ipilit at gumamit ng ibang approach.”
Fostering a love for books will prove beneficial for kids in the long run. And it’s good to complement it with the proper nutrition that helps your little one grow strong and smart. After all, fewer chances of getting sick mean more time for reading and learning.
With a balanced diet and adequate exercise, Similac GainSchool's immune-nourishing formula with 2’-FL HMO and Nucleotides helps support your child's immunity with dual-layer protection. The 2'-FL HMO helps reduce gastrointestinal intolerance and respiratory infections. Nucleotides add a second layer of defense, helping your child reduce instances of diarrhea.
If you are looking for tips from fellow moms and advice from childcare experts about nutrition, check out Similac GainSchool's kidMMUNITY. It's a space that empowers parents to help their children continue to learn and grow.
Learn more about Similac GainSchool and get helpful parenting tips when you join KidMMUNITY. For more information and free nutrition counseling, you may reach out to Alagang Abbott's Nutri-Connect. Book an appointment by sending a message to Alagang Abbott on Facebook.
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