Reading Isn’t Cool? Three Ways to Encourage Reluctant Readers
Do your kids avoid reading because it isn't cool? Maybe you're more in tune than I am, but I was startled when my grandson informed me that reading isn't cool.
Discovering Reading Isn't Cool
It first started when he got home from school one day without the book he was supposed to read. I figured it was yet another way to get out of the requisite 15-minute evening reading requirement. I cut him off at the pass right away: "Well, Caleb, guess you'll have to read one of my books like Harry Potter." But he's not reading Harry Potter, even the 1st volume is a whopping 309 pages. And why on earth would you read something that's also on a DVD that you've already seen?
Not to be deterred, I mention I have a few other books from my childhood. But no way is he reading girl books or books that are THAT old. I find a book for kids that will help with ADHD with lots of pictures and bullet points. He finally agrees to read this for 15 minutes but hates it.
The next day he dutifully brings his book home from school--hidden under his hoodie--so at least he can read a book he's chosen. "Caleb, why is your book under your hoodie instead of in your back pack." He looks at me like I've just lost my mind and patiently explains that reading isn't cool. That he would NEVER want another kid to see him taking a book home.
I check this out with his teachers. Sure enough, part of the struggle they have getting kids to read is the "cool factor."
Try the Library
Still thinking that eventually I'll just give up, he comes home again without a book. I say "Fine. You don't want to read what I have. We'll go to the library and you can choose a book." He argues that going to library is out of the question because someone might see him at the library. Now there's a certain amount of logic here: If reading isn't cool, libraries obviously represent the height of un-cool-ness.
But "someone might see me" isn't as logical. I remind him that if someone sees him at the library, they might be getting a book too. He and his friend can now be uncool together.
Go to a Bookstore
In addition to the library, you can take your reluctant reader to a large bookstore. It's your second option. Choose one that has a kids' area, things to do, even a coffee shop. And don't forget bribes. Something like "After you choose a book--not a game, a puzzle, sticker book or toy--we'll get hot chocolate and a goodie in the cafe."
Have Books at Home
A third option is having lots of books your child has chosen at home. If you're at home, your friends can't see you reading. When friends come over, just put the books away--or choose friends who think reading IS cool. You can't change peer pressure but you certainly can side-step it. And you'll find more ways to sabotage peer pressure and help reluctant readers who think reading isn't cool athttp://www.smartkidssmartparents.com/read/.
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from MaryJo Wagner, Ph.D. - The Learning Doctor, helping you help your kids learn quickly and easily every day in every subject
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