To help put your child on a path to reading success, here's how you can get started:

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Engage them in a dialogue about books. Do you know what they like to read, what genres

challenge them? Expose them to the book list below and engage them in a discussion about

which books look interesting to them.

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Set aside time daily for recreational reading. I would recommend at least 30-45 minutes for

upper elementary students. Spend time asking your child questions about the characters and

illustrations, and put some passion into it!

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Make reading interactive. Children need various ways to respond to books. They can build

comprehension by writing in journals, dramatizing scenes or creating works of art that bring the

story to life. These interactions promote further appreciation of books and are a great way to

make strong connections.

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Develop a rewards system. Engaged readers view books as the best reward. If we want

children to be motivated readers who read for their own purposes, we need to rethink reward

programs at home. If you use incentives, surprise your child with books for rewards instead of

candy, prizes.

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When children read better, they imagine more richly, develop more vocabulary and engage in critical

thinking. You can also help nurture the love of reading by visiting the library with your child or creating

a special place at home where you can read together.