Why doesn’t my
child read anything extra?
Does
your son and/or daughter read anything beyond their textbooks? If yes, you are
blessed. If they don’t read, don’t curse yourself or your child. Have you ever
wondered why children don’t read? Here are some common reasons they put forth:
It’s boring: Maybe the things they are
given to read are really boring. Find out what interests them. Let them read anything they like as
long as it is not obscene.
I don’t have the time: Children think
they have too much to study.
However, they find the time to watch TV, surf or play games on computers, go
out with friends, watch movies, eat out.... but no time to read. It is a
question of priority. Those who love to read find time while doing everything
else. However, remember: don’t force
it on them. Help them to have reading as one of the priorities in life. Create
interest in reading. (More about it later)
It’s too hard: Maybe they are given books
which are beyond their levels. Give them books they can read and understand.
It’s not important: If they think it’s not
important, they don’t know what it can give them. Don’t blame them. They are too young to understand the surrender
value of reading. Make them understand it gradually.
It’s no fun: If reading is not fun, obviously
they are reading very drab stuff. Find out what interests them. Not all
children have the same liking. Some like stories, some like texts on adventure,
fashion, mystery, nature, science, technology, inventions. The list can go on.
You are the best judge because there is no one who understands your child as
well as you. Try and find out their interests and give them books they love to
read. Once they get hold books they enjoy, trust me...nothing can stop them.
