News
Encouraging a Love of Reading
Literacy: Encouraging a Love of Reading in Secondary School Students
This week we are focusing on that important question: How do we foster a love of reading in older students?
We have no doubt that when students read regularly, they develop skills that enable them to access the breadth of the curriculum and improve their communication and language skills. Their concentration and memory improves, they develop critical and analytical thinking skills, and of course they expand their vocabulary.
However, perhaps the most important reason to read at the moment is for student wellbeing. For many in our school community, reading offers a chance to switch off and relax and we would like everyone to enjoy this benefit! Of course, when we read for pleasure the academic benefits are still gained! Below we explore some frequently asked questions about reading by parents of secondary aged students.
How can I be a good role model?
A great way to be a reading role model is to discuss books with your child and show them that reading is an important part of your life. You could give them a copy of your favourite book when you were their age, or read the same book so you can talk about it together. A top tip shared by one of our Valley parents is to still check students are reading regularly, just like at primary school. You could keep a log of this in their planners and ask the student to show their form tutor.
Bedtime stories are a thing of the past. What could I do instead?
Instead of watching TV together in the evenings, perhaps you could try having family reading time together. Even reading for just 10 minutes a day can make a difference. Do you Drop Everything And Read? Plus, reading can have a calming effect and can help everyone at home to relax and unwind.
My child is so focused on their phone! What can I do to encourage them to read?
This question often comes up! Technology can help to excite young readers who are not attracted to paper books. As well as e-readers, most modern phones and tablets have free apps for reading, and there are lots of free and cheap e-books available online. They might also be interested in listening to free audio books and podcasts, which might help them to catch the reading bug.
I really want my child to read, but books are so expensive!
Local libraries have a wide variety of books to borrow and membership is free. You can sign up here. In addition to texts being available online, there are also free reading and writing activities.
My child hates reading novels and stories. What can I do to help?
Reading does not just mean fiction; reading is reading – it all counts. Your child may prefer reading newspapers, magazines, non-fiction books, plays, recipes, travel guides or poetry. Use their hobbies as hooks! By encouraging your child to read things that interest them, you will help them to fall in love with reading. A great place to start is by pointing out books and articles that feature their favourite sports teams, bands, hobbies or films. You could ask their teacher to recommend books on a certain topic.
My child lacks confidence and is a reluctant reader – what can I do to boost their confidence?
You could encourage them to read aloud to a younger relative or sibling. Reading to someone younger can help your child feel more confident in their reading ability and give them a sense of responsibility. Studies have also shown that reading to pets can boost the confidence of reluctant readers! I have worked with many reluctant readers during my career; when students have chosen to read to animals it appears dogs are the most popular animal for this activity!
I’m not a strong reader, how can I encourage my child to read more?
You do not need to be a good reader to encourage your child’s reading. Ask them questions about what they are reading and why they are enjoying it or not. You don’t need to know anything about the book – they can tell you all about it! If you need support with your reading there are courses for adults and these can be searched for here.
My child loves reading, how can they be stretched further?
If your child is ready for a more challenging read they should explore this with their teacher. They should really think about what they have read and why they enjoyed it. What techniques did the author use in the book? Could they use their love of reading to help others? Perhaps they could volunteer to support younger students with their reading?
This week at school we continue to Drop Everything And Read. If you need further support with fostering a love of reading in older students at home, then please do contact the student's English teacher.