As parents, we all want our kids to become strong readers. Reading is the foundation of so much learning, and fostering a love for it early on can set our children up for success in school and beyond. But let’s be real—getting kids to read, especially in today’s digital age, can sometimes feel like pulling teeth. The good news is that there are creative, fun, and even unorthodox ways to help your kids develop strong reading skills, many of which can be easily incorporated into their everyday routines.
Here are a few unconventional methods that can make reading an exciting adventure for your child:
1. Turn on Subtitles for Their Favorite Shows
One of the easiest and most effective ways to encourage reading without them even realizing it is by turning on subtitles while they watch their favorite shows on streaming services. Whether it’s a beloved cartoon, a fun adventure series, or an educational show, having the subtitles on helps your child connect spoken language with written words.
When kids see the words on the screen as they hear them, they begin to recognize how those words are spelled, structured, and used in context. This is particularly helpful for early readers, as it reinforces their phonics and vocabulary skills in a way that feels natural and enjoyable. Plus, it’s a great way to make screen time more productive!
2. Watch Storytime Videos from Ryan & Craig and Awnie’s House
Storytime videos are another fantastic way to boost your child’s reading skills. They combine the magic of storytelling with visual and auditory cues that can help children better understand and enjoy books. Two excellent resources for this are Storytime with Ryan & Craig and Awnie’s House.
Ryan & Craig bring humor and energy to every story they read, making it an engaging experience that will keep your kids coming back for more. Their lively storytelling helps children grasp the emotions and nuances of the text, which is key for developing comprehension skills.
Awnie’s House is another wonderful channel where kids can enjoy stories read aloud in a warm, comforting voice. Awnie’s clear and expressive reading style is perfect for helping young readers follow along with the text. The visuals that accompany the stories are also a great way to keep kids engaged and reinforce their understanding of the story’s content.
These storytime videos are perfect for winding down before bed, during quiet time, or as a fun activity during the day. They allow your kids to enjoy a wide range of books, from beloved classics to new favorites, all while strengthening their reading skills.
3. Create a Reading Routine with a Twist
Routines are essential for building strong habits, but that doesn’t mean they have to be boring. Incorporate some creative twists into your child’s reading routine to keep them excited about books. Here are a few ideas:
- Reading Picnics: Take a blanket and some books outside for a reading picnic in the park or backyard. Fresh air and a change of scenery can make reading feel like a special treat.
- Character Voices: Encourage your child to read aloud using different voices for each character. This not only makes reading fun but also helps with understanding dialogue and character development.
- Interactive Books: Choose books that have interactive elements, like lift-the-flap, touch-and-feel, or sound effects. These types of books are great for keeping younger readers engaged and curious about what happens next.
4. Incorporate Technology Thoughtfully
While we often think of technology as a distraction from reading, it can actually be a powerful tool when used thoughtfully. There are many educational apps and eBooks designed to help kids improve their reading skills in a fun and interactive way. Apps like Epic! and ABCmouse offer vast libraries of books that kids can read or listen to, often with added features like word highlighting and interactive quizzes.
Additionally, eBooks often have read-aloud options that can be beneficial for reluctant readers or those still building their confidence. The key is to balance screen time with traditional reading and to use these tools as supplements rather than replacements for physical books.
Helping Your Child Fall in Love with Reading
Ultimately, the goal is to make reading an enjoyable and natural part of your child’s life. By using creative methods like subtitles, storytime videos, and interactive reading routines, you can help your child develop a love for reading that will last a lifetime. And remember, it’s not about following a rigid plan but rather finding what works best for your child and family.
Let’s make reading fun and accessible for our kids—because when they love to read, they open the door to endless possibilities!
Sandy Esprit 
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