Reading is not only a part of success in daily life. Wisconsin Virtual Learning students and others learn that reading can be a ticket to worlds beyond the known. School may be over; however, learning can continue with thoughtfully chosen reading material, and there are more ways than ever to foster a love of reading.
An Early Start to the Love of Reading
It is never too early to start reading to your little ones. Some parents begin reading stories during pregnancy and continue for years after birth. Young children love to be told stories; when that love for a good book starts early, it seldom ends. Making books a staple of your family routine is one of the best ways to encourage a love of reading.
The bedtime story is always a good place to start. Finishing up the day with a good story delights children, and as they grow older, you may want to incorporate chapter books into the nighttime ritual. Reading out loud with sound effects brings the stories to life and ignites the imagination. One of the exciting things about this is that your child can develop the ability to see “movies in the mind” as the story unfolds.
Discover Your Child’s Preferences
Every child will have favorites. Some will love adventure, others will love funny stories, and some may love the time-tested fairytales and legends. First, discuss the stories and find out what types of tales your child loves best. Then, take the time to support these preferences by providing access to the preferred stories. Your local library or the internet can be instrumental in helping you find books that cater to your child’s interests.
Be a Role Model
“Do as I say and not as I do” is not a good habit when you desire to get your child interested in reading. On the other hand, if your child sees your love for this activity, they will be more likely to follow suit. Consider reading material you can share with your child from time to time, especially with older children. When they see your interest in the written word, their interest may also grow.
Wisconsin Virtual Learning Encourages Variety
Reading is not confined to only books. You can foster reading with all types of material. Newspapers, magazines, graphic novels, and even comic books help get your child interested in reading. Older children may get interested in magazines that match their interests. As long as the material is age-appropriate and promotes healthy values, the available reading material is limitless.
This summer, Wisconsin Virtual Learning students will enjoy their vacation so much more when exciting stories become part of their experience. So, remember to bring along those books and magazines as you travel and always choose reading material at your child’s reading level.
We hope you have a wonderful summer vacation, and we look forward to hearing all about the exciting stories your children have to share. Contact Wisconsin Virtual Learning for more information about what we have to offer your child for virtual learning.