Reading a book is an enchanted paradise, a state of complete bliss, peace and happiness. But unfortunately in today’s internet-crazed world and smart phones, the habit of reading is slowing dying. More often, we see both, parents and children glued, either to their phones or TV screens, having no interest in or time for reading.
The habit of reading should be inculcated in every child. As Emilie Buchwald says, “Children are made readers in the laps of their parents”. No child is too young to be read to. Parents can strive to nurture reading habits in their children as early as possible, even in a toddler. You can start with a picture book associating words to pictures.
Make bedtime reading a ritual in your child’s life. When reading to an infant the story book should be full of colourful pictures and the story be told in an animated fashion. It helps in retaining their attention.
Young children can be read fairy tales, mythological stories, and moral values stories. It not only encourages them to read but boosts their imagination. Bed time reading further strengthens the bond between a child and parent.
Children who form a habit of reading early in their life show a remarkable understanding of things.
Reading not only betters their factual information but also helps them in their academic knowledge. Encourage them to read a wide genre of books.
Teach your child to use a dictionary while reading. They should be learning two new words every day along with its meaning and parts of speech. This helps in building up the vocabulary and communication skills.
Reading stimulates the mind of a child. It gives wings to their vision. Ask them to retell a story words and be prepared to soar with their imagination.
Reading improves focus and concentration in children which further helps them with their academia. It is also a stress buster. With a book a child can travel the length and breadth of the globe, learn about the ethnic and cultural diversity, politics etc.
Another important skill to teach a child is map reading. Reading an Atlas helps a child visualise places, countries and things like climate, rivers, mountains etc in relation to each other. It makes the child understand their position on the globe.
An adolescent should be encouraged to read the newspaper too. They can start with the sports section or whatever interests them and gradually progress towards spellathon, op-ed and editorial. This broadens their horizon and boosts their self confidence.
Have a reading time at home where everyone reads or discusses books or ideas with each other.
With earnest effort and constant encouragement, parents can infuse the pleasure and love of reading in children. Equipped with the knowledge that reading facilitates your child will shine the brightest always.
(Noopur is a homemaker who is a postgraduate in political science. She is a vociferous reader, avid gardener and a running enthusiast)
