Reading helps increase imaginative power in kids: Here’s how to promote both

Post-pandemic effects aren’t limited to us adults but changes in lifestyle have affected children equally. The effects of staying at home and studying in a remote setting through the screen has considerably deprived children of human interaction and increased their dependence on digital media such as mobile phones and laptops. With decreased attention spans and limited concentration capabilities children now suffer silently. They are less likely to sit in one place and read for long hours and involve their minds fully in things that might actually help them, not just academically but also otherwise. Reading can help boost imaginative abilities and help with better comprehension. Here are five ways in which you can encourage your child’s reading habits.

No matter how much variety you introduce your child to, it won’t be of any use until it is consistent. Consistency is key to developing great reading habits that actually benefit your child. Sit with your child every day and ask them to read out to you after a certain time. The child will love this routine and will soon start looking forward to it.

If your child insists on reading a single piece of work, be it a poem, a story or an article, over and over multiple times, then do not refuse them. This helps them learn certain words and phrases by heart which further helps in building vocabulary. You can even ask them to narrate the entire story to you.

Libraries are a storehouse of wonders. For children whose interest in reading is at the nascent stage, being introduced to a variety of genres and books is no less than a thrilling experience. Any libraries near your house can serve as their happy place where you can take them and allow them to choose their favorite books to read.

Reading is a great pastime for children and adults alike, provided they can do it without any interruptions. It is important to acknowledge the complications that your child faces while reading. They could find certain words extremely hard to read or pronounce, at other times it could be the overall comprehension that becomes extremely tough for them. Ensure that you identify and assist them with reading practice so that they do not give up on it as an activity.

Be it brochures, signboards or traffic instruction boards, asking your child to read out loudly can help with encouraging reading. In no time you will notice how your child will begin doing so on its own. Asking for their help to read will also make them feel responsible towards you and give their best try at it. This is an effective method.