If you want to raise a reader, few things are as important as maintaining reading routines with your child. After all, this will help build reading stamina and a lifelong love of books! With a few small, easy steps, you can turn reading into one of your child’s favorite activities.
Here are five tips to encourage reading routines at home that will not only benefit your child in all subjects, but also reinforce the joy of reading for pleasure on their own.
1. Create a Reading Space
The first thing to keep in mind when creating reading routines for your child: Designate a special nook meant just for reading.
“Help your child find and create a special place where they will want to read,” says Karen Burke, Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Adaptive Learning at Scholastic Education. “Ask them for input on what works for them. Help them set up the space and make it their own. Is there a special stuffed animal for a reading buddy, or a special blanket or hat to use while reading?”
The smallest details will help make the space more inviting for curling up with a good book.
2. Set a Schedule
Creating a set schedule to stick to for reading will make your child want to read on their own.
“Work with your child to set a specific time each night that supports a regular routine where other things aren’t scheduled,” says Burke.
Keep in mind that this doesn't have to be rigid. Instead, it can take the form of relaxing family time.
“Make time to read with your child, even if you’re simply reading your own books across the room from each other,” says Katie Carella, a former teacher and Executive Editor at Scholastic who oversees the Acorn and Branches book series for early readers. “One of the most important things you can do is model good reading behavior. Turn off the TV, put away your phone, and spend quality time with a book. Your child will see that books offer their own enjoyment.”
3. Use a Calendar or Monthly Reading Tracker
Burke also suggests using a visual aid so that your child can see their progress with a calendar.
“Using a calendar where the child can document the number of minutes and the days they read can make it visual for them,” says Burke. “Read with your child at least one night a week in the special spot your child has created.”
Monthly reading trackers are a great way to keep kids accountable for their reading habits, not to mention they're fun and satisfying to fill in. Your child will feel a real sense of accomplishment when they successfully complete a month's worth of reading. Download our reading habit trackers — we have one for November, and another for December — to help you and your child monitor their progress.
