Books
A woman reads a book at a Barnes & Noble bookstore in Pasadena, California in this November 26, 2013 file photo. The bookseller said it would spin off its Nook tablets and college books business, sending its shares up about eight percent in early trading. Reuters/Mario Anzuoni

Children need to develop their genuine love for reading at an early age. It is during the early stages of their growth and development that parents must introduce books and expose them to reading. In order to do these, here are three effective strategies to develop reading skills in children.

  1. Read a story

Can you still remember the time when your mum or dad read to you bedtime stories before you go to bed? You can do the same with your own children. Reading exposes them to various stories, poems, fables, nursery rhymes, fairytales and other forms of texts. In addition, they also learn values from these stories. Afterward, you may ask them questions about what you have read. This way you develop their reading skills such as their comprehension. In case your child already knows how to read, ask him or her to read along with you or swap roles by letting him or her do the storytelling.

  1. Use varied books

Just because your child loves fairytales doesn’t mean you should only read such stories to him or her every time you have your storytelling. This is one habit you shouldn’t cling to. It’s vital that we expose children to different kinds of stories to broaden their vocabulary, tickle their imagination and improve comprehension. Bear in mind that stories have various themes and plots and sticking to only one will eventually make reading boring. Instead, you should expose him or her to stories of adventure and magic as well as biblical and real-life stories.

  1. Lead to read

You can never teach your child to love reading if you yourself don’t read. Always bear in mind that you are the best example and role model to your little ones. In order for them to develop essential reading skills, you must show to them that you also enjoy reading. Your child will get curious if he or she sees you holding a book and would even ask you about what you’re reading. Sometimes, he or she will even sit on your lap.

It’s not difficult to develop reading skills in children. As long as you follow these strategies, you’ll know you’re on the right track.

For questions/comments regarding the article, you may email the writer at sprevendido25ibtimes@gmail.com