Tips On Getting Kids To Read

First of all, schedule time for it. We make time for swimming lessons, ball games and our favorite TV shows. So, make time for reading, too. Consider holding a family "Drop Everything And Read" time. Turn off the TV, let the phone machine take calls, and everybody pick up a book, magazine, or newspaper. Make it a summer tradition you can keep all year.

Be sure to visit your public library. There's certain to be a summer reading program chock full of fun and great reading experiences.

Get books on subjects your children like. Sometimes parents get too fussy about what their children are reading. Even if your child prefers "junk" at first, reading skills are still being built.

Choose books that are at your child's "recreational" reading level--slightly below his or her "instructional" or learning level. We aren't preparing for the TCAP or ACT here--even though the skill improvement will definitely help when the time comes.

For TV addicts, get tie-in books. Books, magazines or comic books tied to popular TV shows or movies can spark interest in reading.

Read to your kids, even when they're reading on their own. Read short stories to each other, or alternate chapters of a bigger book. You'll be building confidence as well as reading skills--and making great memories.

Fill your home with inviting things to read. An intriguing magazine article folded open on the bathroom sink, a couple of joke books on the kitchen table, or a travel brochure about a planned vacation can inspire reading and discussions. Think of it...you could actually have a conversation with your teenager!

For early teens, find books on the issues they face. Let appropriate books help you talk with your youngster about such things as the changes of puberty, drugs, peer pressure and the like. Middle-schoolers are often tough to please, so hone in on subjects that interest them--fashion, fast cars, skateboards, video games, movie stars.

Let your child buy a book. For a special treat, visit a bookstore and let your child choose a paperback or children's magazine. Attention Other Caring Adults: Books and magazine subscriptions make excellent gifts.

Involve your children in activities that require reading. Try projects where your child must read directions--cooking, crafts, art projects. Even an excursion through the TV Guide includes reading lessons.

And while we're on that subject...Set some limits on TV viewing. Television is the greedy thief of the time your child might better spend reading.

Be sure your children see you read. The most important thing you can do to encourage your children to read is to show them your own interest in reading.

So, from the teachers of Tennessee, thank you for encouraging reading and for being a part of our theme, "Building Better Tomorrows...Together!"