In today's society, learning how to read is part of the process of
development of any child. Starting reading early on can help develop
your child's skills and future success. This is why it is important
for parents to help their child choose books that are fun but also
educational.
How to choose a good book (for kids) ?
The reasons behind picking a book for a kid are far from being
educational. When it comes time to it, kids will make their decisions
based on the the size of the book or its attractiveness. The
smallest, the biggest or the one with a kitty on the cover are all
good reasons for kids to pick a book. In fact, children selection
criteria rarely have if ever anything to do with their reading
skills. This is why it can be a big issue. Let's say the the book is
too easy, the child will not be benefit from any sort of challenge,
therefore little progress will be made. However, if the book is too
difficult, the child can become discouraged and even give up reading.
There comes the importance of parents in the decision of choosing a
book. Parents have to look for a book that their child will be able
to understand and appreciate. Also, in order for the child to improve
their reading skill, the book itself has to slightly exceed the
reading level of the child.
Children prefer to choose what
book to read. However, it is recommended for parents to help children
pick their books. Books often come with an age range, but because
parents know their child, they are the best judge in determining the
reading level of the kid.
How to ensure that the book is at the level of the child's
reading.
First, before purchasing the book, get your child
read a random page from the book. When he or she stumbles on a
difficult word to read or understand, have him or her lift a finger.
If by the time your child has completed the page all five fingers are
raised, there are chances that the book will be too difficult for his
or her current level of reading. On the other hand, if no finger is
read after going through the whole page, the book is most likely too
easy. Two or three fingers usually indicate that the book is perfect
for the level of reading of the child. It also means that the book
will offer him or her a nice balance between entertainment and
challenge!
To keep a child's interest in reading, parents
need to find a book with a topic that will interest your kid. Most
likely, children enjoy the stories they can relate to. Books with
chapters or short stories will allow the child to take breaks
throughout the reading. Favor books with small chapters or short
stories. If there is complains that the book is too hard, encourage
your child by reading some of the pages together. You can alternate
and have him or her read a page and you read the next one.
Natasha Van Khouvers has worked in elementary schools, high schools and in summer camps. She
is also a freelance writer and has helped develop the science books for kids website
(http://www.science-books-for-kids.com),
a useful tool for all parents.
