8+Ways+Parents+Can+Promote+Reading

=__**8 Ways Parents Can Promote Reading **__=
 * 1. Read yourself.** Your actions really do speak louder than your words. When your kids see you reading the newspaper or curling up with a book, they will want to follow your example.

better with practice. Researchers have found that children who spend at least 30 minutes a day reading for fun - whether they read books, newspapers, or magazines - develop the skills to be better readers at school.
 * 2. Make sure your children read every day.** Reading - like shooting baskets and playing the piano - is a skill. Like other skills, it gets


 * 3. Get the library habit.** Make sure everyone in your family has a library card. Schedule regular trips to the library. While you are there, check out a book yourself!


 * 4. Read aloud to the children.**s Research show that this is the most important thing parents can do to help their children become better readers. Here are some tips:
 * Start reading to your children when they are young. It is never too early to begin reading to your children.
 * Don't stop reading to your children as they grow older. You will both enjoy the chance to do something together.
 * Set aside some time each day for reading aloud. Even 10 minutes a day can have a big impact. Bedtime is a natural reading aloud time.
 * Other busy families read aloud at breakfast or just after dinner.
 * Read books you enjoy. Your kids will know if you are faking it.


 * 5.** Here is a way to **use your newspaper to encourage reading:** a scavenger hunt. Give your child a list of things to find in today's newspaper. Here are some ideas:
 * A map of the United States.
 * A picture of your child's favorite athlete.
 * The temperature in the city where a family member lives.
 * Three words that begin with "w".
 * A movie that is playing at a nearby theater.


 * 6. Give books as gifts.** Then find a special place for your children to keep their own library.


 * 7. Make reading a privilege.** Say, "You can stay up 15 minutes later tonight if you read in bed." Or you might say, "Because you helped with the dishes, I have time to read you an extra story."


 * 8. If you are not a good reader, you can still encourage your children.** As your children learn to read, ask them to read to you. Talk about the books your children have read. Ask a friend or relative to read aloud to your children.