Reading Motivators
© 2006 Resources for Educators
by Rod Wittmer
January 16, 2006
Experts say the simple habit of reading for pleasure can help make students successful. Here's how you can play a part in developing reading habits that will last your child's lifetime.
Get your high schooler reading about subjects he enjoys. Keep magazines around the house that hit on topics he cares about, whether it's politics, art, or music. Even enlisting him to review instruction manuals for new games, appliances, or other products can help foster a reading habit. Don't forget, too, that Internet sites involve reading -- so suggest he explore Web sites about favorite subjects like movies or sports cars.
Encourage your teenager to broaden his horizons. Librarians at a local library or your child's school can steer him to different kinds of books that might spark his interest. For example, if he wants to learn a skill, such as woodworking, how-to books are the perfect way to satisfy his curiosity. Keep in mind that your teen's interests may differ from yours. He might enjoy books you wouldn't read yourself, like science fiction or real-life adventures.
