subject: Don't Read this Article If Your Son is a Good Reader [print this page] Don't Read this Article If Your Son is a Good Reader
By Lee Harrison, Publisher, http://BoysBestBooks.com
Yes, it's sad, but true: Parents and grandparents who seek out articles like this very likely are already doing all they can to help their boys become great readers. So, if you fall into that category, maybe you could pass this article along to those who could use a few basic tips to get their boys reading. And, please, feel free to send me your tips for getting boys to read. Here are my tips:
First and foremost, as parents and grandparents, you must lead by example: If you want your boy to learn to love reading, you must be a reader yourself. You must have books and magazines around the house. You must introduce your sons to the wonders of the public library librarians always stand ready to help and of course, you must read aloud to them. And start reading aloud EARLY before they even know what a book is!
Back in 1985, The Commission on Reading, which was organized by the National Academy of Education and the National Institute of Education and funded by the U.S. Department of Education, issued a report saying, "The single most important activity for building the knowledge required for eventual success in reading is reading aloud to children." It went on to say reading aloud should not be limited only to the home. "It is a practice that should continue throughout the grades." Are your boys' teachers reading aloud in class? If not, why not?
Before you read aloud to your boy, familiarize yourself with the book. This will allow you to put the proper emphasis on words, prepare you to explain unfamiliar concepts, and even help you to develop a voice or style for each character. Oh yeah, please don't read in a monotone. You don't have to render a performance fit for the Royal Shakespeare Co., but you must appear fully engaged in the story. Remember, you are leading by example, and your boy will reflect your excitement and interest in the book.
Make it a fun experience. Discuss the book with him, and answer his questions. But if he doesn't like the book, don't panic. I don't finish books I don't like, and you probably don't either. Just keep plugging away and find something that tickles his fancy.
Today's kids are very much into technology. So, why not use it to help them read. Introduce your boys to audiobooks and E-books. Back in the 1980s, I taped BBC radio productions of Lord of the Rings and Star Wars so our son could listen to them on his own, even in the car. Publishers have got the message, and most new books for kids are available as audiobooks. Likewise for E-books. Amazon's Kindle is a great device, but many E-books can be read on your son's computer or smart phone.
If your boy isn't into novels, read about something he is into: baseball, football, basketball, camping, boating, surfing, etc. Idea: Try The Worst-Case Scenario series of books about surviving all kinds of hazards. It covers stuff most boys eat up. The Guinness Book of World Records, National Geographic magazines and books, and all kinds of sports almanacs should be on his shelf, too.
