Tips for Getting Reluctant Readers to Enjoy Reading

If you're a homeschooling parent and you're dealing with a reluctant reader you're probably experiencing how challenging this can be. Reluctant readers are different from struggling readers. Reluctant readers are those that consider reading a chore.

They do not see it as something pleasurable that they can enjoy. Sometimes reluctant readers do have reading difficulties. However, in most cases, these children try to avoid reading as much as possible even though they can read.

Here are some tips that will help you on your homeschooling journey, to engage a reluctant reader.

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Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Choose the Right Books

Perhaps the most important thing you can do when you are dealing with a reluctant reader is to make sure you are selecting the right book. Take a close look at what your child is interested in. If you can find books on this topic then you should go ahead and buy those books for them to read. 

For example, if your child likes the sea or animals from the sea you can buy books about aquariums and ocean life. For older children, you could even buy books about careers that revolve around the ocean. 

This will get them interested in reading and listening to what is in the book.

Set Up a Routine

Whether they know it or not, children benefit from routines. You can set aside specific times each day for your child to read their favorite book. During this time, you can read to your child, or use a read-along with my book as part of your routine. As you read, discuss with your child what they think will happen next. 

You can make predictions and have them make predictions as well. You can both have fun figuring out which of you was right. 

Another thing you can do is try a book series to get them hooked. Book series are effective especially if they are on a topic that your child enjoys. 

Become Creative

One of the things you can do is to try to get creative with how you let your child read. For example, you can have them listen to audiobooks and follow along with the written text. 

Another thing you can do is to watch the movie adaptation of a book before actually reading the book. While this may spoil the surprises for children who love to read it is very helpful for reluctant readers because they have some idea of what they expect. 

If they enjoy the film, they know that it is likely that they will enjoy the book as well. You can also engage your child with technology. Most children have tablets and cell phones. 

You can use these to sign up for online reading programs that are tailored for all kids no matter what their age of learning. This is a great way to keep reading fresh and interesting.

Get Started

You now know some of the best ways to engage a reluctant reader and get them to finally start enjoying reading. You must try several different techniques to see which one will work. If one of the techniques mentioned here doesn't work, do not despair, simply try another one.

This is a contributed post.

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