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Let’s motivate your grade school-aged kids to read (with the best reading tips for kids)!
Age 6-8 is such an exciting time for reading with children (who are now beginning to develop stronger literacy skills).
Grade school kids are beginning to read more, faster, and with improved fluency and comprehension. It’s time to keep things exciting and challenge their reading skills just a little more!
We’ve put together a list of the 7 best reading tips for kids (6-8 years) to motivate your grade school-aged children to pick up a book, to keep them on the right track and boost those reading levels even more.
A passion for reading starts in childhood (and lasts a lifetime). Here are the best reading tips for kids.
READ TOGETHER
Want your child to love reading? Do it together. Kids may be able to read some books and stories independently at this age. Reading independently is important, but that doesn’t mean they should typically do it alone. Designate a special book series that you always read together (e.g., the gorgeous, illustrated editions of Harry Potter).
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Illustrated Edition; 2015)
J. K. ROWLING
JIM KAY (Illustrator)
Get It! Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (Illustrated Edition; 2015), $21.98; www.amazon.com.
READING ROUTINE
Be consistent, have a routine. Set aside the same time every night for reading (both independently and together). Aim for a minimum of 20-30 minutes, or more (but respect if your child is tired or needs a break). Keep it positive and fun!
INTRODUCE CHAPTER BOOKS
It’s a great time to introduce beginner chapter books. As kids master the basics, they’re understanding more of what they actually read in the text (i.e., pictures are not as critical to reading comprehension). Pictures and illustrations are still exciting and enhance stories (so aim for chapter books that still have some).
KEEP IT EXCITING
It’s just a fact, kids will read more if it’s material they like, that’s exciting, and engages their interests/curiosity. Give them what they like to read. Books that are funny, true or mysterious stories (hauntings or ghost stories), or those with interesting facts and activities (world records, quiz books) are all good choices.
SET AN EXAMPLE
If you want to motivate your child to read, let them see you reading. Make it a habit and a regular part of your day at home. Let them see you read (and enjoy) books that are of interest to you, and also those that are of interest to them (that you can share, or create your own special book club).
Need some reading inspiration for yourself? Check out our post on the newest fall picks from Reese’s Book Club, or soulful titles on Oprah’s bookshelf.
Also, be sure to catch up on love beauty thrive’s new monthly book feature series, Books & Coffee.
Books & Coffee No. 1, Becoming
Books & Coffee No. 2, Finding Freedom
GET A LIBRARY CARD
If you haven’t yet, get your child their very own library card (and maybe even their own little wallet to keep it safe). A special milestone for kids, getting their own library card teaches responsibility, and the excitement of being able to use it themselves inspires visits to the library and motivates reading (you’ll save money on books too).
REVIEW THE BASICS
Struggling reader? Every child learns at a different pace. Make sure you’ve covered the basics (and talk to your child’s teacher if you have any concerns). Check out our posts on helping to develop reading skills (and interests) with kindergarteners, preschoolers, infants and toddlers, and even newborns (you can never start too early).
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5 Smart Ways To Help Kindergarteners Develop Strong Reading Skills
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