Blogging A to Z: Don’t “x” Electronics
I know, I know, this sounds counter-productive, but kids LOVE technology and you don’t always have to be against technology to encourage reading. With access to eBooks from your local library, kids can use technology and also be reading!
I’m not going to dive too deep into the types of ereaders out there, but suffice to say you have a lot of options. Some options are more “tablet” oriented with access to apps, games, and more. While others are strictly for ebooks. If you’re searching for something kid-friendly, I might be more inclined to suggest a color screen for kids who love to read books with illustrations, especially comics or graphic novels. Otherwise, check out a device that has a screen specifically for reading. It’s much more like reading text on a page, than text on a computer screen and without the glare, you can even read easily outdoors!
Device & Content Access
I’d be more inclined to also focus on where you’ll be accessing ebooks and other content which might make your decision for you. As I mentioned above, check out your local library for access to their eLibrary – most likely OverDrive, Hoopla, or cloudLibrary. Some of these tools work better with specific technology. If you plan on having a subscription service or purchasing from a vendor, make sure it’s compatible with your device.
A few other notes about using technology for reading. It’s super accessible – change fonts, including an option for a dyslexic font that makes reading easier, change the background, enlarge the text, all of which are options on an ereader that you don’t have with a traditional print book.
Changing a reluctant reader into a reader doesn’t have to mean getting rid of technology, maybe picking up technology is where your nonreader becomes a reader!
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!
