What if developing a love of reading could be easy? For some kids it is... others, not so much! One of my kids is an avid reader and loves it. She will choose to pick up a book during her free time, without me saying a word. Another one of my kiddos, my preschooler, loves to read books together, but screens have begun to pull her attention. And my middle kiddo is what I call a "picky" reader, and that's the biggest challenge.

I understand the struggle when a kiddo says "I don't like reading." It's important to avoid frustration around reading, to ensure that a love of reading develops and continues.

There are several strategies to help make reading the activity of choice, but sometimes we just need to take it back to the basics... the A-B-C's so to speak. Below are a few helpful and EASY tips to develop and nurture a love of reading.

The ABC's of developing a love of reading...

A... Make books Accessible and Appealing. Intentionally place books at eye-level, within reach, and with covers facing outwards. When books are always nearby, and their bright and vibrant covers are visible, it's more likely that the books will be picked up and read! So display those books!

B... Utilize Baskets and Bins to scatter books everywhere! (The dollar store has great options). Where should you place these book baskets and bins? Think B's... Keep books in the Bedroom, at the Breakfast table, by the Backdoor, in the Backseat of the car (assuming motion sickness isn't an issue), and even keep a stash in the Bathroom! Baskets and bins make it easy to move books from room to room too.

BONUS TIP: Change out the books often to keep it exciting and "new." You'll be amazed at how interesting an "old" book becomes in a new environment!

C... Cozy Up! Grab a book or two and climb onto the couch to read together. Reading is a calming activity that feels good! (Fun fact: The brain releases dopamine when you read!) And when you read together you promote connection by being close. (Cuddling up releases oxytocin which promotes bonding). You can read a book aloud, or read silently side by side. Both enhance a love of reading!

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If you have older kids that are too big (or too cool) to cozy up on the couch with you, you can still utilize these basic ABC's to develop a love of reading.

Simply grab a book from your TBR ("to be read") stack, that you've been dying to read yourself, and cozy up in your favorite reading spot! (I find it helpful to keep my current book within reach on the side table or between the couch cushions).

When you model reading to the kids in your life, you help create a culture of reading. Plus, you will make reading look appealing when they see you enjoying the activity. I tend to notice it brings the chaos down a notch too!

So tell me, what book are YOU currently reading? I'd love to know! And if you need 1-on-1 help finding books for your avid readers and/or reluctant (aka "picky") readers, let's set up a time to chat. I offer quick and free assessments, to determine which type of books would be the best fit for the kids in your life based on their age/grade, interests, reading level and general feelings toward reading. With more information, you can fill your home with the books kids will WANT to pick up and read!

“Books are the plane, and the train, and the road. They are the destination, and the journey. They are home. - Anna Quindlen

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I look forward to hearing from you! Happy Reading!

-Jen

Jennifer de Guzman, Literacy Advocate

PaperPie Brand Partner and Advanced Leader, PaperPie Learning Educational Services Representative, www.jenslittlebookstore.com​

PaperPie, formerly called Usborne Books & More, offers engaging and educational books and learning products for kids of all ages, newborn through teens. Browse the full selection anytime here: www.jenslittlebookstore.com

To schedule a personal shopping appointment, or to learn more about becoming a brand partner with PaperPie, send an email to: jen@jenslittlebookstore.com or text: 971-220-1678