Blogging A to Z: Understanding Interests

This one seems so obvious, but hear me out! As adults, we get to choose what books we pick up to read for fun. There’s no one out there tracking what we’re reading, giving us tests, following up with comprehension questions, etc. We get to read whatever interests us.

If you want your child to be a reader, then you have to find something that interests them as well! Maybe your kid isn’t into reading novels, but will read a sports magazine or the sports section of the newspaper from cover to cover.

Maybe your kid will read every title in a graphic novel series, but isn’t as comfortable picking up a novel. Or they might be willing to check out the Guinness Book of World Records (Guess what? They still have to read those little text bubbles to learn about who has the craziest records!). Finding books that interest your child from their own perspective is key.

Let me circle back really quickly. Comprehension is important, understanding a story is vital, but I don’t think a quiz on every book a child reads is necessary or even helpful. It’s better to have a casual conversation than to try and grill your kids on their reading.

Pairing Interests with Reading

Okay, back to finding books about your child’s interests. Video games are hugely popular right now – and you know there are video game books – how to play the game better, tips and tricks, character handbooks, etc. This is a great place to get started!

If you’ve got a kid who loves being in the kitchen baking or cooking, a cookbook is sure to get their attention! You’ve got to read a recipe to know how to make it. Is your kid interested in animals? Find some fiction or nonfiction (don’t forget, nonfiction is a great resource) about their favorite animal.

There is reading material out there for just about any kid. You just might have to get a little creative to find something that interests your reluctant reader enough to pick up and try!

For the month of April, I’ll be sharing tips for reaching reluctant readers as part of the Blogging A to Z Challenge. There are dozens of reasons why a child might be considered a “reluctant reader.” As summer nears, continued reading practice helps students to keep the reading skills they learned while reading for fun. But, that’s not easy when a child doesn’t want to sit down and read. I’ll be sharing 26 tips to meet reluctant readers where they are. And hopefully find a way to make reading bearable, if not even something they want to do!