Reading help in the upper elementary grades is important too. A survey from Scholastic Inc.'s "Kids and Family Reading Report" compiled in June 2006 shows that enthusiasm for reading begins to dwindle in kids by the age of 8. According to the report, while 40% of children ages 5-8 continue to enjoy reading daily, only 29% of children aged 9-11 remain in the high frequency reading category.
Many reasons may be attributed to the drop off in reading in the upper grades, including more demanding extracurricular music and sports activities, increased homework, higher interest in video games and computer usage, and the issues associated with transitioning from easy and colorful picture books to the more complex reading required in chapter books.
How can a parent offer reading help to their older kids? One way is to show a joy in reading every day and encourage children to keep reading for fun. Here are a few tips that might rekindle the literary spark in reluctant elementary readers.
Keep Reading Aloud, Offer Reading Help to Older Kids
Many parents may feel that once a child is reading independently, reading aloud is no longer necessary. However, this ritual is most certainly a source of great delight and still has many benefits. Step up the stories by reading more complex books with intriguing plot twists and lots of humor. Take turns reading paragraphs or pages and ask lots of questions to ensure that the comprehension is there.
Keep Going to the Public Library
Continue making occasional visits to the local library. Upper elementary children will still enjoy going and they will gain access to a larger variety of books. By this age, children are usually allowed their own library cards, too. While there, talk to the librarian and ask if any reading programs are available for older children, such as Book Buddies or tween book clubs.
Utilize Various Reading Materials for Reluctant Reader
Don’t limit a reluctant reader to just books. Point out appealing articles in newspapers, magazines, and online as well. Read some comics or poetry together. Demonstrate how to use the Internet to look up facts about a subject that fascinates, then expand interests further by picking up some nonfiction literature. If music is a keen interest, try reading some lyrics together and interpret what they might mean.
Make Sure Books are at the Appropriate Reading Level
Books that are too easy may quickly become boring to children, while books that are too difficult will cause frustration. For this reason, parents of elementary kids still need to help choose the books that are a good match for their reading abilities. To determine a child’s reading level, consult her teacher or try performing the five-finger test on a chosen book before committing to it.
Parents play an important part in the continued development of children’s literacy skills. In fact, Scholastic’s 2006 reading report notes that parents who are avid readers themselves will be more likely to raise kids who love reading. Older children still catch cues from parents, and will notice when they take time out to read. Ultimately, a positive attitude toward reading will help children understand how important and enjoyable books can be.
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