Initially, I considered naming this article "The Laid-Back Parent's Guide." However, I realized that most parents are not lazy; rather, they may have a unique perspective on children and education.
Whether you're an avid reader or homeschooled, you're likely interested in teaching your child how to read. Reading is a crucial skill and a source of great pleasure in life.
Here are my relaxed approaches to teaching a child to read:
1- Set an Example by Reading Yourself
Children often mimic the behavior of adults. If they see you reading frequently, they may develop an interest in reading too.
2- Read to Your Child
It's a no-brainer that reading to your child from an early age is important. However, don't make it a task to "teach your child to read." Instead, read to your child because you enjoy it and it's a fun activity. Some education experts believe that the traditional approach to teaching reading actually hinders reading. Reading should be something that is enjoyed for its own sake, not just as a means to an end.
3- Embrace a laid-back approach
Don't stress about the "right" way to read to your child. If your little one isn't interested in books yet or can't sit still for more than a few seconds, it's okay. Everyone learns differently, and there's no need to force it. Make reading together a fun and enjoyable experience, rather than a stressful one.
Also, don't worry about when your child learns to read. Studies have shown that the age at which a child learns to read has little impact on their intelligence or abilities in the long run. So, whether they start at 3 or 8, just keep encouraging them and enjoying the journey together.
4- Follow your child's interests
One of the best ways to get your child excited about reading is to let them pick the topics that interest them. When my oldest son was 5 or 6, he became obsessed with the Series of Unfortunate Events books by Lemony Snicket. We would sit for hours and read together, even though the books were technically above his age level.
According to educator and author John Holt, children are more likely to be interested in reading when they see adults reading books with pages and pages of print. So don't worry too much about whether the books your child picks are "age appropriate". Let them explore and discover their own interests.
5- Limit screen time and prioritize reading
Numerous studies suggest that excessive screen time can negatively impact a child's interest in reading. Television and video games can teach the brain to be passive, while reading requires active engagement. To encourage a love for reading, limit your child's screen time and prioritize reading books together. Enjoy the bonding experience and have fun exploring different stories and topics together.
