Non-Book Ways to Get Children to Read

Fun Ways, (that don’t always involve books), to get your child reading

Does your child cringe at the thought of reading a book? Is it a constant battle to get him/her to spend some time reading? Try some of these ideas to help develop a greater appreciation for reading!

Collecting trading cards – there are many different card series on the market that are sure to appeal to varied interests. Visit your local shop and let him/her choose a series that appeals to them and then take an interest in them yourself. Ask your child what the cards are all about.

Play board games – whether it’s a traditional board game or one that is virtual, word orientated games are great

for developing spelling skills and building vocabulary!

Cooking 101 – set some time to prepare a special meal or bake something gooey and delicious. Prepare the recipe’s instructions in a simplified manner so that he/she can read it to you.

The Inquisitive Mind – Is there something that really interests your child or perhaps that he/she would like to do? Encourage him/her to research the topic on the Internet.

Treasure Hunt – Set a play date for your child to invite some friends over. Prepare a list of items that they all have to search for in your house. Provide some thoughtful clues that they have to read to find the items with the last clue leading them to something yummy to eat.

A laugh a day – Write a funny joke on a slip of paper and place it in your child’s school bag to find when he/she has a snack break. The joke can then be shared with his/her friends….make sure the joke is age appropriate.