Children need to acquire the habit of reading from the time they're young. But, what role do families play in this learning? How can you stimulate reading at home?
Written and verified by the psychologist Ana Couñago.
Last update: 27 December, 2022
Reading is one of the most important skills that a human being can acquire over the course of his or her life. The ability to read allows us to incorporate all kinds of information from all different areas of learning. Therefore, it’s best to maximize this capacity both at school as well as within the context of the family. So, with that in mind, we want to suggest 4 ways to stimulate reading at home.
“A capacity, and taste, for reading, gives access to whatever has already been discovered by others. It is the key, or one of the keys, to the already solved problems.”
– Abraham Lincoln –
4 ways to stimulate reading at home
Create a reading corner
A good way to stimulate reading at home is to create a special spot for reading in your child’s room. All you need to do is prepare a space where your little ones feel motivated to read.
This corner should be attractive, have good light, and offer a variety of stories and books. Make sure your child can easily access the books independently, and that they’re suitable for his or her age. This will encourage your little one to enjoy the ability to read and all that this involves.
Establish a habit of reading before bed
Reading before bed is beneficial for children on a number of levels from the time they’re very small. For one, it gets them used to setting aside a time for reading on a daily basis.
“A child who reads will be an adult who thinks.”
– Anonymous –
From the time babies reach between four and six months of age, parents can start reading books to them. As they listen, they’ll look at the drawings and colors within these books. But, little by little, they’ll start acquiring the ability to understand the stories and, when you least expect it, they’ll start reading on their own.
In this way, we introduce reading to children and help them develop this ability, which is fundamental in order to create little readers who will grow up to value its importance.
Become members of a local library
Another great way to stimulate reading at home is to take your kids to the local library and become members. With a library card, your children can choose from endless titles to suit their tastes and interests. They can spend time reading at the library or check out books to relax with at home. This is also a great way to teach children about responsibility.
Set a positive example
In order for children to develop a good reading habit, it’s important for parents to also read at home. Don’t forget that, as parents, we are our child’s biggest role models, and they follow our example. Therefore, it’s crucial that little ones observe their parents doing their own recreational reading. This can include novels, magazines, newspapers, blog entries, etc.
“Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.”
– Joseph Addison –
The importance of stimulating reading at home
Families should place a great deal of importance on reading and offer their children multiple opportunities to stimulate and develop this ability. That’s because, as we’ve mentioned, mastering the skill of reading allows us to learn constantly over the course of our lives.
What’s more, the habit of reading on a regular basis also:
Encourages empathy and the ability to appreciate other perspectives.
Gives children a better understanding of their own emotions and those of others.
In conclusion, there are many benefits to establishing good reading habits at home from the time children are small. So, what are you waiting for to start applying the ideas we’ve recommended above. We’re sure your child will thank you for it!
“You may have tangible wealth untold; caskets of jewels and coffers of gold. Richer than I you can never be. I had a mother who read to me.”
— Strickland Gillian —
This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.
