Getting Reluctant Readers To Read...

Being able to read is one of the most important skills a human learns and is vital for ensuring success in everyday life. However, children often find learning to read `boring` and many refuse to read outside of school, even when offered incentives!

But do not panic - getting children to read isn`t difficult if you ensure they view it as an enjoyable activity from the onset.

Children are like all of us - they have their own interests. Imagine giving a book about football to a very feminine little girl who is fascinated by fairies and magic - she probably wouldn`t be interested. Even though it is important to ensure children explore different subjects and interests, you should make sure they are reading something they enjoy. Special books for reluctant boy readers have recently been released, as well as books which appeal to those with specific interests such as sport or nature; always ensure you allow your child to pick a book they want to read and never read for more than ten minutes at once - unless of course, your child wants to do more!

When helping a child to read it is important you understand the basics of synthetic phonics, as this method is now seen as the most effective way of teaching literacy. Listen to how your child decodes words and ensure you understand specific sounds, e.g: the word chick can be broken down into ch-i-ck. Children are taught to recognise these sounds and `blend` them together to form a whole word, so it is important you understand this technique. Some words, such as: `was`, `the` and `said`, cannot be blended simply, so most children learn these words by sight - it is therefore important to familiarise yourself with `high-frequency words`.

Offering rewards is often the most effective way of encouraging children to read, although it is important to only reward if a good attitude is shown. Children who struggle to read should be rewarded whenever progress is made, even if the improvement is very small. Stickers are an inexpensive reward and can be used to ensure children develop confidence when reading. Most children only dislike reading because they haven`t been given books that interest them.

All children learn to read at different rates and some will always find literacy more difficult. Individual needs such as dyslexia can make learning to read a challenge, but all children have the capability to improve. It is important to demonstrate empathy and patience when helping a child to read, as this will improve their self-esteem. Never punish a child for making a mistake, as this can lower their confidence and slow progress; instead, help them to understand why they have made an error and ensure they understand that: all humans learn through making mistakes!