Inspiring Reluctant Readers

  
 How do we uncover the potential of reluctant readers?  Parents and teachers alike wonder what we can do to inspire them to become readers. The experts agree that there are different types of reluctant readers and that there is a vast range within the realm of reluctant readers.  A reluctant reader is one who does not show any interest or motivation to read. You may note that some reluctant readers just need a bit of encouragement to read or they may be the child that purposefully avoids reading in any form. Reluctant readers many times tend to deflect their ambivalence towards reading by exhibiting certain behaviors. Some common behaviors are avoidance of reading activities, acting silly, making negative choices, or shutting down completely.  Many times these reluctant readers have become masters at shadowing their adverse feelings towards reading. When parents and teachers start to see a pattern of these behaviors it is time to start looking closer at what is exactly at the root of the problem.

Possible Causes of Reluctance

*Learning difficulties or academic gaps could be definite reasons for a child to become reluctant. Communication between the teacher and parent will be necessary in order to identify or rule out possible learning difficulties or academic gaps.

*Mismatched reading levels and interests are another cause of reluctance. One of the main reasons students do not read or complete a book is that the child's reading level is not correctly matched to the readability level of the text (book/story).  Also, it is a must to consider a child's interests when helping them to choose independent reading material.

*Providing motivation to read also plays an imperative role in creating inspired readers rather than reluctant readers.

Motivational Ideas.....

1.  Give them choice in what they are reading. Children love to have the chance to select their own reading material.

2.  Set aside time daily to read aloud ....this builds memories, positive feelings, and modeling.

3.  Create a special cozy reading space in your home and create a print rich environment.

4.  Remember that it does not have to be a book to count as reading.  Magazines, newspaper articles, stories online, informative websites, and even mail are all real world reading experiences that provide practice.

5.  Take time and read some of the books your children are reading.  This will allow you to have meaningful conversations with them about their books and will show them you value their interests.

6.  Don't forget about audio books and technology.  They are engaging and  provide wonderful models of reading.

I hope these ideas are helpful and that your child will become inspired to read.