Some tips and strategies to get youngsters and children reading over summer
Summer is the perfect time for children to develop and nurture their love of reading. Without the pressures of term time, they can read for pleasure and enjoy a whole host of new “adventures”. From BSS here are some strategies to get them reading during the summer, as well as some book recommendations for different ages.
Strategies to Encourage Reading in Children
- Create an Attractive Reading Space: Set up a comfortable and cosy area at home where children can read. Use some cushions, make sure it’s well-lit and put a variety of books within easy reach.
- Establish a Reading Habit: Make reading part of your children’s daily routine. It can be before they go to bed, after lunch or during any free time they have in the summer holidays.
- Visit the Library on a Regular Basis: Libraries often have summer programmes to encourage reading. Sign your children up for these programmes and let them choose books that catch their eye. Here is a list of age-specific recommended books for children.
- Read Out Loud: Reading out loud not only improves reading comprehension, but also strengthens the bond between parents and children. Take turns — read to them and then let them read to you.
- Use Technology: There are apps and audiobooks that can make reading more interactive and engaging. Use them to complement paper books.
- Make Connections with the Real World: Relate books to real-world activities. For example, if they’re reading a book about dinosaurs, you could visit a natural history museum.
- Start a Book Club: Organise a book club with your friends or family. This can make reading a fun and social activity.
Recommended Books for Children, Categorized by Age
Books For Children Aged 3–5
- “The Colour Monster” by Anna Llenas: A book that helps little ones identify and understand their emotions.
- “Where The Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak: A magical story about imagination and adventure.
- “Guess How Much I Love You” by Sam McBratney: A classic about the love between parents and their children.
Best Books for Children Aged 6–8
- “The Gruffalo” by Julia Donaldson: A rhyming tale about a clever little mouse who takes on a monster.
- “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” by Jeff Kinney: In his diary, Greg Heffley writes about the misadventures of his daily life, from school to problems with his family and friends.
- “Matilda” by Roald Dahl: The story of a brilliant girl with telekinetic powers.
Recommended Books for Children Aged 9–12
- “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling: The gateway to a magical world full of adventure.
- “Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan: A series that mixes Greek mythology with the modern-day world.
- “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” by Roald Dahl: A fascinating story about a boy who wins a golden ticket to visit the world’s most amazing chocolate factory.
Books for Teenagers Aged 13 and Over
- “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins: A thrilling dystopia that explores themes of survival and rebellion.
- “The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien: An epic fantasy journey that immerses readers in a world full of magical creatures and adventures.
- “The Diary of Anne Frank”: A poignant real-life story that provides a historical perspective on World War 2.
Encouraging children to read during the summer can be an enriching and fun experience. With the right strategies and age-appropriate book recommendations, you can help your children discover the magical world of literature…
This summer, open up the doors to new adventures and emotions with a good book!
