Reading: Share the Love

For kids who struggle with reading, a five-page homework assignment can seem like an insurmountable task. In fact, even kids who are proficient readers can become proficient complainers when faced with a lengthy assignment. By presenting reading in a positive light, you can help your child do well in school. Even more important, you can be instrumental in instilling a life-long love of reading.

Here are a few ideas to help you get started.

Show your child that there is far more to reading than just homework assignments. It is, of course, important that your child complete all of her school-related reading to the best of her ability. But she shouldn't only associate reading with school. Remember that reading can take many forms. Introduce your young reader to a great graphic novel, like those in Art Spiegelman's Little Lit series. Spiegelman, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Maus, brings together top storytellers for this highly regarded, fun-to-read series.

You may also want to introduce your child to magazines that are created especially for his interests and age group. Time for Kids is a great introduction to world events. Sports-loving students will devour Sports Illustrated Kids. Young nature enthusiasts will love classics like Ranger Rick and Your Big Backyard.

Reward your child for time spent reading. We're not talking big prizes, here. Instead, show your child that reading is valuable—and that you are proud of her hard work—by creating a "gold star" system or taking her out for a small treat, like an ice-cream cone or a new pack of stickers. Remember, too, that all children read at different levels and paces. Your fifth-grader might fly through a Harry Potter book in a week, while your third-grader struggles to finish a three-page story. Reward your child for making strides at his or her own ability level. Positive reinforcement is a great way to encourage a love of reading. It shows your child that reading is valued.

Lead by example. Your child is very aware of the things that you do—and the things that you don't do. If he sees you reading for fun, he'll be far more likely to pick up a book than if he never sees a parent or guardian reading. Even more important, talk about reading with your child. When you're sitting at the dinner table, share something exciting that you found in a book. Recommend stories that you loved as a child to your own children. You are a role model for your child in so many ways, and she will certainly notice—and emulate—your attitude toward reading.

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