Creating a Reading Routine at Home

Set a Regular Reading Time

• Tip: Establish a specific time each day dedicated to reading, such as after school or before bedtime. Consistency is key to helping children develop a reading habit.

Create a Cozy, Distraction-Free Reading Space

• Tip: Choose a quiet spot in the house with good lighting where your child can read comfortably. This space should be free from distractions like TVs or loud noise.

Mix Up Reading Materials

• Tip: Incorporate a variety of reading materials such as books, magazines, comics, and even interactive apps. This keeps things fresh and engaging.

Incorporate Reading Into Daily Activities

• Tip: Encourage reading during everyday activities like cooking, grocery shopping, or even reading road signs on a drive. It helps children see that reading happens all around them.

Read Together

• Tip: Make reading a shared activity where you take turns reading aloud. This is especially beneficial for children with reading difficulties, as it allows them to hear fluent reading and practice their skills.

Use a Reading Progress Chart

• Tip: Create a chart or visual tracker to celebrate milestones like completing a chapter or finishing a book. Positive reinforcement can motivate children to keep reading.

Incorporate a Range of Genres and Themes

• Tip: Introduce different genres (fiction, non-fiction, poetry, etc.) and themes to keep your child’s reading experience diverse and exciting.

Model Reading for Your Child

• Tip: Show your child that you value reading by setting aside time for yourself to read books, newspapers, or articles. Children often mimic the behavior of adults around them.

Discuss the Stories Together

• Tip: After reading, ask open-ended questions about the story to help develop comprehension skills. Discuss characters, settings, and what might happen next to encourage critical thinking.

Be Patient and Flexible

• Tip: If your child has difficulty focusing or becomes frustrated, take breaks, and be patient. Some days will be better than others, and that’s okay. Adapt the routine to what works best for your child.

Feel free to add your own ideas you've incorporated into your own home and routines below!