Children who read learn well, self entertain, and develop empathy for other people and animals. One great way to promote reading is to develop a family reading culture. Learn how in this post!
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Five Ways to Develop a Family Reading Culture
What You'll Find on This Page
Children who read books hold the world at their fingertips. They can teach themselves a new skill, research a concept, and travel the world from the comfort of their couch. Through books, children discover empathy, social and emotional intelligence, and critical thinking.
Learn how to develop a family reading culture.
Read Out Loud
Reading out loud to your children is one of the easiest ways to teach children to value books! You can start with simple board books for babies, and move on to engaging chapter book read alouds. Read them a bedtime story.
Fill Your Home with Books
I am a huge advocate for buying books if you can afford to. But public libraries are there to be used! Borrow books even if you can buy some. Both you and your child will discover new favorites as you browse library shelves.
If you find your self in need of inspiration, ask the librarian for recommendations. They spend all day every day with books, after all!
Model a Love of Reading
You need to read books yourself if you want your children to love reading! Check out this list of books I read in 2020 for inspiration.
Start Young
It’s never too soon to read to your child! Even babies in utero can hear you reading out loud. Make reading an everyday habit from day one.
Talk About Books You Read
Books make excellent talking points. Talking about books also offers valuable insight into how your child sees the world.
As children grow older, try to read at least some of the chapter books they read so that you can continue these valuable discussions.
Make Books Part of Your Gift Giving Traditions
I love to include a board book when I give baby presents. Our family also enjoys a Christmas book themed advent calendar. This one is fun, because you can even wrap up library books to count down with and then return them. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to give books!
I also love taking my children to library book sales, and giving them a budget they can spend on books. You can do the same with a used or new book store. Considering pairing one of your children’s favorite chapter books with another small gift for a birthday present.
What are your top tips for building a family reading culture?
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