Now that we are in the heart of back to school season, many of us are getting regular reminders from our children’s teachers that our children need to be reading each day. Of course, we already know how important reading is.
When a child learns to read, it opens up a whole new world to them. When a person can read, they will be able to do more, learn more, and become more than they otherwise would.
Further, reading frequently enhances several other skills like communication, academic performance, and mental focus (In The Book).
But did you know that our routines can impact our children’s reading? Aside from helping us get things done (and maintaining our sanity), routines are extremely helpful in establishing good reading habits and improving a child’s reading ability. Here are some ideas on how your routines can encourage your child to become an avid and effortless reader.
Routines Make Time for Reading
In a busy world where we often feel like we are flying from one activity to the next, routines give us a solid schedule where we can make time for what is important to us and our families. Maintaining routines ensures that there will always be time for our children to read. Having a certain time set aside daily to read is one of the best things we can schedule and make time for.
Routines Allow Us to Be Involved in the Process
Routines also allow us to be able to commit to helping a child read. It is frustrating for a child who has a desire to learn something when their parent has too many other things on the go to assist them when needed. Putting reading into one’s schedule allows us to be available and to plan ahead so that we can be there when necessary.
Routines Allow Our Children to Look Forward to Reading
Children thrive on routines, and they crave predictability in their schedules. When your child knows what to expect at each given moment, they will anticipate what comes next. Although it seems counter-intuitive, our children will be more likely to look forward to reading when they know it is going to happen at a certain time, and on a daily basis.
Routines Give Children the Structure to Think Creatively
When a child doesn’t have to wonder what is going to happen at the next moment, all day long, they can channel their creativity into more worthwhile things. Routines free up a child and their imagination, and give your child room to expand their creative pursuits. Children who think creatively are more likely to enjoy reading, because their imagination fills in the blanks as they read, and brings the text to life.
Routines Free Your Child’s Mind to Learn
Daily routines help everyone function at their best, from the youngest to oldest of the family. Routines help us feel stable, and let us get into a rhythm. We function at our best when our bodies have a predictable pattern and know what to expect next. Your child will feel less scattered and be able to focus and concentrate on reading when they feel safe and secure. This is what routines do for us.
Routines are beneficial to families in every way. They give time to parents, creative energy to children, and the opportunity to make it all happen. Embrace routines in your life and see what a difference it can make in your child’s ability and love for reading.