Encouraging reading skills: 7 tips for parents.

Encouraging reading skills: 7 tips for parents.

The recently published pisa figures show that reading skills among 15-year-olds have declined. This is an unfortunate development, because good reading skills help you not only at school but also later in society. In this article you will find 7 tips to stimulate reading skills and to make reading with your child more fun!

1. Choose different types of texts

Reading does not always have to be old dusty thick books. There are different kinds of genres that may fit very well with your child’s interests. Let your child get to know different kinds of stories, informative books, comics/graphic books, magazines, and texts on the internet.

2. Read regularly together

Make time to read together. This does not have to last long: ten to fifteen minutes a day can already be valuable. Take turns reading a piece and help when your child encounters a difficult word. Not possible daily? A weekly reading moment can also be very useful.

3. Visit the library once

In the library there is a wide choice of books, so every child can find something that fits their interests and reading level. Looking around together, choosing books, and taking a book home gives children a sense of independence. The library often also offers fun storytelling afternoons, children’s activities and special reading programs. This can make going to the library a fun outing.

4. Talk about what you read

Talking about what you read makes reading a more social activity and understanding what you read is at least as important as being able to read words. Therefore ask questions about what your child reads. For example: “What is this story about?”, “Why does the main character do this?”, or “What do you think will happen?”.

5. Look together for the meaning of words

Come across an unknown word? Discuss or look together what it means and possibly think of an example sentence. By using new words regularly, your child remembers them better. Also, actively talking about the use of words can add a playful element to reading.

6. Set a good example

Children learn by watching others. Show that you yourself also read. For example, discuss something interesting that you read in a book or newspaper.

7. Stay positive and patient

Every child develops reading skills at their own pace. Give compliments for effort and progress. Avoid pressure or criticism when reading is difficult.

The most important thing is, of course, that reading remains fun for your child. This works best if they have genuine interest in what they read and if they can be helped and supported by their environment. Enjoy reading!