One difficulty that many mothers face when it comes to getting their children to read is finding the right reading materials for them. This is something that varies from child to child as each child is unique. This means that there are several things you need to take into consideration when you start looking for books for your children to read.
1. It’s Not Always about Age: While many parents feel that the right books for their children depend on age alone, this isn’t necessarily always the case. Many books at bookstores are grouped according to various ages to help parents find the right ones for their kids. However, you need to look at each one of your children’s reading level. For example, if you have a five year old that reads really well, you may find it more beneficial to get her books that are slightly more advanced than the books recommended for her age. In contrast, if you have a five year old that has some reading comprehension problems, you may have to look at books slightly below those in the 5 year old group.
2. Interests: Another thing you absolutely must consider when picking books out for your children is what their individual interests are. Learning to read is somewhat difficult for young children and they can be easily discouraged. This is why you need to find books that are about subjects they are interested in. For example, if you have a little boy that doesn’t have much interest in sports, but loves trucks and dinosaurs, then it makes sense for you to buy him books about trucks and dinosaurs. You have to find reading materials that your child will be excited to read – this means purchasing books about the right topics.
3. What’s Popular: While you don’t necessarily want your children to always do what their friends are doing, it’s okay when it comes to books. Reading will become more fun for your children if they are reading books that their friends are also reading because they will be able to discuss the books with each other. Therefore, if you have kids in school try to pay attention to what the other kids the same age as your child are reading.
You may be thinking that this doesn’t really apply to you because your children aren’t in school yet. However, it still applies – just not to the extent of your child talking about books to his friends. You will find it helpful to talk to other parents with kids the same age as yours about the types of books they are reading. This will help you get a general idea of what some good books are for child’s age. It will also give you some good titles to consider buying for your kids the next time you go to the bookstore.
Reading to Children
In order to get the most benefit from reading, it is important to find the right reading materials for your children. Just remember to consider your child’s interests, what’s popular and that you aren’t confined to books just because they’re in your child’s age group. When all of this is taken into consideration, you will find it much easier to determine what books are best for your children.
Photo credit: hortongrou
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